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Applying TRUE to warehouse and distribution center projects

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Why use TRUE on warehouses and distribution centers? 

In addition to the benefits that are seen across all sectors (such as a comprehensive, whole systems approach to achieving zero waste and the value of obtaining rigorous third-party certification) warehouse and distribution centers are experiencing increasing demand to deliver TRUE certified projects to fulfill ESG goals, keep up with market competition and to demonstrate commitment to environmental sustainability.

How many warehouse and distribution center projects are registered and certified under TRUE?

As of April 2025 there are over 200 TRUE‐certified and registered projects that are warehouse and distribution center projects. It’s our second most common facility type and represents approximately 25% of all TRUE projects. This includes projects certified through the one-off process and those certified through multiple building applications such as portfolio.

What is the TRUE portfolio program, and how can warehouse and distribution center projects benefit from the offering?

For organizations planning to certify many projects, TRUE portfolio approach to certification can simplify TRUE documentation and speed up the review process for those portfolios where uniformity and standardization of the TRUE requirements are built into the facilities’ operational processes. Using this option streamlines TRUE certifications by focusing on similarities in policies and practices – no matter where the projects are located. For organizations that certify multiple buildings within a given timeframe, this option offers valuable economies of scale. Learn more.

How do multiple buildings and structures in a campus setting earn TRUE certification?

Warehouse and distribution center projects commonly operate with multiple buildings spread across a single site. To address this, TRUE Campus Guidance was introduced for projects that are on a shared site under the control of a single entity. Its application to TRUE projects represents the complexity and commonality of buildings and infrastructure on a site. TRUE Campus Guidance is available in the Guide to TRUE Certification, highlighting the conditions for campuses with multiple buildings and campus‐wide management policies. Project teams can benefit from an increase in streamlined review process, and reduced certification fees under the Group Campus approach, leading to successful implementation of TRUE projects.

What issues are unique to warehouse and distribution center projects?

The storage and transportation of goods presents a strong financial return on investment for reusable shipping containers and a reduction of single use packaging materials. In addition, Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) practices and personnel are often important to the operations of warehouse and distribution centers, which provides a natural fit for many projects to add zero waste policies, practices and culture into their facility. If a company has multiple warehouses and distribution centers, often a representative or zero waste champion from each site joins a company wide green team, to share best practices and opportunities for achieving zero waste and TRUE certification. A good first step for these individuals is to take the TRUE Advisor certificate program to establish a common terminology and set of strategies.

Where can I find owner profiles and case studies on warehouse and distribution center projects?

Does USGBC offer any education for project teams wanting to learn more about warehouse and distribution centers pursuing leadership with materials management?

Yes! Check out the following sessions in the USGBC online course catalog:

Who can I contact for more information? 

For more information about TRUE and how it applies to warehouse and distribution centers, contact us.

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