Testa Produce, Inc. has taken vast steps to become a sustainable and environmental leader in the foodservice industry. On Sept. 21, 2011, those efforts were recognized as Peter Testa, president, was one of three recipients of the Environmental Leadership Award at the Ninth Annual Illinois Environmental Council (IEC) Dinner.
Several representatives from the city of Chicago, Cook County, and state of Illinois sustainability movements were in attendance at the dinner. Along with Testa, Illinois state Senators Toi Hutchinson and Suzi Schmidt were presented with awards for their dedication to sustainable practices. The ongoing efforts of the award recipients and the collaboration of dedicated parties have helped increase sustainability awareness in Chicago, according to the IEC.
Testa was recognized for his efforts to open one of the most sustainable produce distribution facilities in the city of Chicago – indeed, in the nation. The company’s new 91,000-square-foot facility features a 238-foot wind turbine, extensive water management system, solar power for both energy and hot water generation, barreled green roof, energy-efficient lighting, hybrid transportation, and numerous other green characteristics. It is through these state-of-the-art details that Testa Produce plans to gain the U.S. Green Building Council’s highest available LEED rating — Platinum certification.
