Going Green

A Few Chains in Chicago Go Green

They are all aiming for this.
They are all aiming for this. Photo: courtesy of usgbc.com

Jewel-Osco just reopened a completely redesigned outlet in Lakeview, which is aiming to go “green” and snag a LEED certification. How will it get it? According to the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED certification includes building for “energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts.” The new Jewel did this by growing a garden on its roof, using LED lightning, and by conserving water (among other things). It’s admirable thing for large grocery store to do, and it’s not the only one to do it. So we wondered what other food outlets in the city had gone down the LEED route.

Dominick’s is also seeking Chicago ranked number one in green buildings. We already knew that Rick Bayless’s Xoco had been certified, as had Province in the West Loop (please let us know about any others). But what is kind of surprising is that Chicago is also home to one of the two LEED certified McDonald’s (though a couple more are currently seeking certification). It is located in the South Side neighborhood of Back of the Yards. So we suppose you can feel just a tinge better about that Big Mac.

McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Arby’s Among Chains LEED [Supply Chain Digital]
Green Jewel Osco Opens in Lakeview [TOC]
Intro - What LEED Is [ U.S. Green Building Council]
Chicago’s LEED Certified Buildings [Choose Chicago]

A Few Chains in Chicago Go Green