By Gail Radley
Because
this is a one-of-a-kind convenience store: the nation’s first environmentally friendly 7-11.
Even outside, you’ll notice something is different about this 7-11. A cypress pergola provides semi-shade to the benches in front, and nestled beside it is a carefully tended garden bed of native, drought-tolerant plants. Of course, 7-11 grabbed a primo spot, on the corner of Woodland Boulevard and Ohio Street, next to Stetson University. The local bus stops at that corner. Bicyclists can lock their transportation at the rack by the picnic table on the side. Or you can park your energy-efficient car in the spot reserved for such responsible vehicles.
Within the store, the white, well-lit interior fairly shouts clean and bright. I asked Mike, the cheerful clerk, and he confirmed that this 7-11 is brighter than others. (He should know; he was transferred here after 3 years at an old-style store). It’s the four skylights, he explained, plus the sensor-driven lighting that is reflected on the large white floor tiles. But you won’t have to find Mike to get the scoop (though all the clerks, I’m told, are versed in the basic features of their green workplace); signs posted around the store document its environmental friendliness. The increased natural lighting, I read, has been “proven to boost morale and even reduce sickness rates.” What’s more, the air quality is monitored to reduce airborne illnesses. I feel good just walking around the place.
Using local materials & recycled steel in the construction not only helped the local economy but also cut down on transportation costs and pollution. Even better, the store has five-inch thick poured concrete walls. Why is that important? Well, West Volusia does get the occasional hurricane — but don’t let that scare you. You can weather the storm in this sturdy 7-11.
Of course, the downtown DeLand 7-ll has its traditional array of unnaturally good treats. Simply buying a wild cherry Slurpee or a bag of the new coconut M & Ms feels like you’re doing your bit for the environment!