Target’s investment in sustainability has paid off as its first 24 stores in Ontario have been awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.

Target is pursuing LEED certification through the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED Volume Program, which streamlines the certification process for multiple buildings of a similar type in both Canada and the U.S. To obtain certification, Target stores must undergo various rounds of audits and meet stringent criteria across five LEED categories, including sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.

The mass retailer is seeking LEED certification for all 124 stores scheduled to open in Canada. Target has already opened 48 stores in British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario. It plans to open another 76 by the end of 2013.