REIs environmental focus

Recreational Equipment Inc. wants to make its mark as a leading outdoor gear and clothing store.

The Seattle-based retailer, known as REI, sells camping, fitness, bicycling, hiking and paddling gear and equipment.

But REI has another goal -- to help the environment.

For instance, its new store in West Broad Village in western Henrico County is eco-friendly.

"Every time we open a new store, we incorporate the latest green building techniques," store manager Michelle Peck said.

The store has skylights. Sensors are used to adjust the lights based on how much natural light there is and the number of people shopping.

The air-conditioning system automatically adjusts temperatures based on the number of people in the store. The fixtures use fewer contaminants, which improves air quality.

And to help encourage employees to find alternate ways to commute, the store has racks and storage space for bikes and showers.

To create a bond with the community, REI forged a partnership with local nonprofits to raise awareness and money.

The chain gave the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay a $10,000 donation to create an outdoor classroom program to expose students to nature and conservation issues.

The Henrico store is the 110th for the chain, which already has two in the state. REI employs about 50 here.

Contact Louis Llovio at (804) 649-6348.