Darden, which also owns Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse and other chains, says it will involve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards in its newer restaurants for certification by the US Green Building Council. Eight locations are initially tabbed for LEED status over the next two years, including a newly opened Olive Garden in Jonesboro, AR.

"While we may not seek LEED certification for every restaurant we build or remodel, we can make a positive impact by learning from the eight restaurants where we are seeking LEED certification and applying best practices across our entire portfolio," says Suk Singh, Darden senior vice president of development. He says the restaurants, which are intended to last up to 30 years, should be built in a sustainable manner from construction and operational standpoints.

LEED-related design elements will include: building materials with recycled content, such as sheetrock, doors and windows; more windows allowing natural light; energy efficient equipment and fixtures; and reclaimed heat from condensers on air-conditioning and freezer/cooler systems.