Wal-Mart Brings a Breath of Fresh Air to Chicago

By Joanna Miller in News on Apr 20, 2006 7:52PM

When you think of Wal-Mart, you think environmentally friendly, right? We sure do. Well, when we’re not thinking about great employee benefits, thriving local economies and women’s rights.

That adorable smiley face just makes us feel all warm and fuzzy. Especially when he’s rolling back those prices. We love it.

OK, so maybe we don’t heart Wal-Mart, but the discount giant is going green for its Chicago debut, at least on the outside. When Wal-Mart opens its new Chicago store this summer, it will be the company’s first to features a grassy meadow on its roof.

The roof is designed to reduce rainfall runoff and takes the place of an irrigation system. Regular Wal-Marts, as you know, use a system of hoses manned by orphaned children.

The roof is part of Mayor Daley’s Green Roof program, which is designed in the hopes of lowering the city’s air temperature.

So come August, when you’re sitting outside enjoying a nice beverage and realize that’s it’s not quite as sweltering as usual, well, you thank your lucky stars that Wal-Mart came to town. And then go and thank them by buying a big box of ammo. And maybe a kicky sweater set.

Green roof example photo via treehugger.com