ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 7, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Climate First Bank, the world’s first FDIC-insured community bank established to address the climate crisis, completed sustainable upgrades at its Winter Park branch at 1150 South Orlando Ave. Since the branch opened in 2022, Climate First Bank has committed $900,000 for special renovations to the existing 3,620-square-foot building. Because structural systems account for up to 80% of a building’s embodied carbon, reusing and adapting an existing structure inherently reduces the emissions associated with construction.

Designed to achieve net zero and aligned with the bank’s goal of reducing carbon emissions, the Winter Park office is applying for LEEDv4 Platinum for interior design and construction – the highest LEED rating – and waiting to the final certification. It’s also an upcoming one Recognized green company from the city of Winter Park. Climate First Bank hosted a Values ​​Night for clients, sponsors and stakeholders on February 2, 2023 to celebrate. Photos are from the event and from the new branch HERE.

The outstanding features of the branch with an efficiency of 120 percent include:

• Innovative 27.1kW solar panels including translucent vertical panels in front of windows
• Vertical plant walls that complement the interior of the store with biophilic elements
• Energy-saving, mercury-free LED lights with efficient controls
• Water saving, low flow sanitary fittings
• Energy Star certified devices
• Holistic, sustainable material selection with full consideration of carbon footprint, transparency and superior indoor air quality and health benefits
• Design considerations to ensure a comfortable, acoustically sensitive environment
• Two charging stations for electric vehicles
• Bike racks to support the walkable and bike-friendly location of the store
  

“Although we have three offices, Winter Park is a major milestone for us as it will be our first LEED building,” said founder and CEO Ken LaRoe. “I hope our renovated building inspires the community to…