ASDA will open a flagship store which is built on a frame made entirely from timber and with materials from recycled and renewable sources. The store, which is due to open later this month in Bootle near Liverpool, UK, will be 35 per cent more energy efficient than any existing ASDA store to date.

The low carbon store also includes solar powered lighting and recycled rain water to flush the toilets. The store will also rely heavily on natural lighting which is estimated will save about 142 tonnes of CO₂ and 349,000 kw hrs of electricity per year. This equates to the same energy needed to power 3,600 households for a week.

Fridges and heating have been specially designed to reduce energy waste. The roof will be covered in grass (sedum) which will act as a haven for insects and wildlife, whilst providing better insulation as well as water retention.

The 39,000 sq ft (3,600m²) store represents an investment of £27 million (€35 m), complementing the huge level of regeneration in the City of Liverpool. The new store will also create over 350 full and part time jobs.

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