Environmental Leader

As the economy takes a nosedive, shopping mall managers are seeking ways to cut costs. Some of these involve reducing energy use. Some have slashed shopping hours, while others have replaced light bulbs, the types of plants and turned down the thermostat, Chicago Tribune reports.

An ominous response by shopping centers has been Westfield Group’s announcement that it will reduce shopping hours at all five of its Illinois malls.

Northbrook Court is using more energy-efficient light bulbs and “tweaking” the thermostat in back corridors, Arnie Cohen, Northbrook Court marketing manager told the Chicago Tribune. The mall is also buying more green plants, instead of flowers, which are more expensive. It is also replacing outdoor plants with perennials that return to bloom for several years.

Ford City Mall turns on its escalators about five minutes before the mall opens to save on energy costs and repair services. John Sarama, senior general manager told the Chicago Tribune that the move cuts the mall’s electrical usage by 11 percent.