Eco-Friendly Hotels: Sofitel Chicago Water Tower Goes Green

Chicago's iconic landmark just got a Bronze Award for its green environmental practices from the non-profit organization Green Seal. The Sofitel Chicago Water Tower-- the 32-storey glass structure designed by the French architect Jean-Paul Viguier-- has worked hard on energy efficiency and water conservation. Here are the deets on the green strategy that the hotel's implemented:

*Install energy efficient equipment in the office, kitchen and laundry facilities

*Connect water conserving devices: such as 2.2 gallons per minute faucets, 2.5 gallons per minute showerheads and 1.6 gallons per flush toilets

*Implement a successful recycling program that is monitored on a monthly basis for waste reduction targets

*Use non-phosphate, nontoxic, biodegradable cleaning products and detergents

*Purchase 30 percent post consumer recycled paper

*Establish a purchasing policy that incorporates environmental goals and preferences

*Minimize use of chlorine

An invaluable part of the Windy City's rich architectural legacy, the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower-- located just minutes from the Magnificent Mile-- also uses single-stream recycling, and locally purchases 60 percent of the dinner ingredients for Café des Architectes.