May 23, 2008 - Dunkin' Donuts has begun construction on its first LEED-certified location.

The new restaurant in St. Petersburg, Fla., will incorporate a variety of green building enhancements, including energy-efficient insulated concrete foam walls that are expected to reduce the need for air conditioning by 40%.

"The first Dunkin' Donuts LEED certified restaurant is part of a greater corporate social responsibility commitment that will provide the company with a central frame of reference for organizational decisions and strategic goal setting," according to CEO Jon Luther.

The restaurant is projected to open in September.