Chicago's Green Pulse: Events and Initiatives for Sustainable Living

Why Sustainable Living Chicago Matters Now

Sustainable living Chicago is more than a trend—it's a city-wide movement backed by concrete plans, local businesses, and community action. Whether you're looking for zero-waste stores, want to attend green events, or simply want to reduce your carbon footprint, Chicago offers a growing ecosystem of resources and initiatives to support your journey.

Quick Guide to Sustainable Living in Chicago:

• City Goals: Chicago aims to reduce carbon emissions by 62% by 2040 through its 2022 Climate Action Plan
• Where to Shop: Find 20+ zero-waste stores and refilleries across neighborhoods like Lincoln Square, Logan Square, and Humboldt Park
• Events: Annual Sustainability Market at Northcenter Town Square (September) features local sustainable businesses, material collection drives, and costume swaps
• Take Action: Join community cleanups, volunteer with Working Bikes, or borrow tools from the Chicago Tool Library
• Transportation: Leverage CTA public transit, Divvy bikes, and Chicago's walkable neighborhoods to reduce your environmental impact

The City of Chicago is a leader in innovative environmental initiatives that center equity and sustainability. Buildings are the number one source of greenhouse gas emissions in Chicago, which is why the city has made sustainable practices standard for all municipal facilities—from green cleaning to streamlined solar permitting.

But this isn't just about what the government is doing. Local businesses like The Eco Flamingo (Chicago's largest selection of bulk food and personal care items) and Meliora Cleaning Products (manufacturing planet-friendly products right here in Chicago) are making it easier than ever to live sustainably.

The benefits extend beyond environmental impact. Sustainable living improves community health through reduced pollution and better air quality. It increases household savings through energy efficiency and reduced consumption. And it strengthens neighborhoods by supporting local businesses and fostering connections.

Chicago's Commitment: City-Wide Sustainability Plans

Chicago is not just talking the talk when it comes to sustainability; our city is walking the walk with robust, city-wide plans and initiatives designed to create a greener, more resilient future for everyone. We understand that effective change happens when government, businesses, and communities work together. The City of Chicago is at the forefront of innovative environmental initiatives, always striving to center equity and sustainability in our efforts. With buildings identified as the number one source of greenhouse gas emissions in Chicago, a significant focus is placed on changing our urban infrastructure.

The 2022 Climate Action Plan

At the heart of Chicago's environmental strategy is our ambitious 2022 Climate Action Plan. This plan sets a clear course for the city, aiming to reduce Chicago's carbon emissions by an impressive 62% by 2040. This isn't just a number; it's a commitment to a healthier, more sustainable urban environment.

The plan prioritizes initiatives that deliver meaningful community benefits and system improvements, ensuring that our progress is inclusive and impactful for all residents. We're looking at various interconnected co-benefits, including improving community health through reduced pollution and healthier air quality, advancing environmental justice by addressing cumulative burdens in front-line communities, and increasing household savings through energy efficiency. It's all about creating a just economic transition to renewable energy and fostering equitable access to critical infrastructure.

Green Buildings and Homes

Given that buildings are the primary contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in Chicago, our city has made significant strides in promoting green buildings and homes. We believe that by building with more efficient and sustainable designs, we can dramatically reduce emissions and waste while conserving precious resources and energy.

One of our key initiatives is Retrofit Chicago, a cross-sector effort driving energy efficiency in municipal, commercial, and residential buildings. We've also established a Sustainable Operations Plan, making sustainable practices standard for all city facilities. This includes everything from green cleaning and pest management to eco-conscious office equipment and supply procurement. Furthermore, the Chicago Public Building Commission ensures that all new municipal buildings integrate environmental features and adhere to rigorous green building standards. For city-assisted projects and new planned developments, our Sustainable Development Policy outlines clear sustainability standards, ensuring that growth is always green. You can learn more about these efforts and how you can contribute by exploring our Green Buildings and Homes resources.

Energy Efficiency and Renewables

Investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy is crucial for Chicago's sustainable future. By increasing the efficiency of our buildings and transportation, we save money, conserve resources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Using clean and renewable energy sources not only improves air quality but also invests in the industries of tomorrow.

The city has made putting solar on your roof as efficient and affordable as possible through the Chicago Solar Express initiative, which cuts fees, reduces time-in-line for permits, and streamlines processes. We're also embracing Smart Grid legislation to modernize Chicago's electric system, creating jobs and enhancing energy reliability. Programs like Energy Impact Illinois offer valuable resources and rebates for homes, multi-unit buildings, and businesses looking to upgrade their energy efficiency. For residents needing assistance, the Energy Action Network provides access to programs like the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). These efforts are part of our broader Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy initiatives, all designed to propel Chicago towards a cleaner, greener energy future.

Your Guide to Sustainable Living in Chicago: Shops & Resources

Living sustainably in Chicago is made easier by a vibrant network of local businesses and organizations committed to reducing waste and promoting conscious consumption. Our city is a treasure trove of eco-friendly shops, refilleries, and services that support a circular economy. It's about making choices that benefit both our planet and our community.

Here are our top 5 sustainable swaps for city dwellers:

• Reusable Bags: Ditch plastic for stylish, durable totes.
• Refillable Water Bottle: Say goodbye to single-use plastic bottles.
• Bulk Groceries: Bring your own containers to stock up on pantry staples.
• Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products: Opt for natural, refillable household cleaners.
• Sustainable Fashion: Explore upcycled clothing and repair services.

Zero-Waste & Refill Culture

The zero-waste movement is thriving in Chicago, with numerous stores making it simple to reduce your reliance on single-use plastics. These shops encourage bulk shopping, allowing you to bring your own containers to fill up on everything from grains and spices to cleaning supplies and personal care products.

• The Eco Flamingo: This zero-waste general store boasts Chicago's largest selection of bulk food, cleaning products, and personal care items. We love that you can bring your own container to fill up, and they also offer a wide variety of eco-friendly home goods.
• The Unwaste Shop: Their goal is to provide sustainable alternatives to everyday items, offering plastic-free goods and a refill station for non-toxic, sustainably sourced products.
• The Refilleri: A waste-free shop specializing in refillable solutions for lifestyle, personal care, and home goods. They even have plans for zero-waste wine!
• à la main apothecary + refillery: Hand-crafted products formulated with pure, effective ingredients that are good for mind, body, and home, with a focus on certified organic ingredients and therapeutic-grade essential oils.
• Dill Pickle Food Co-Op: Located in Logan Square, this sustainable grocery store also offers home and personal care items, locally sourced meats and produce, and an extensive bulk section for refills.
• The Eco Shop & Refillery: A low-waste boutique in Ashburn offering reusable, plant-based refills and non-toxic essentials.
• Gaia’s Market & Refillery: In Homewood, IL, you can fill up reusable containers at their bulk bar with household cleaning, laundry care, bath and body, skincare, and oral care products.
• Sugar Beet Co-Op: An Oak Park co-op grocery store with a mindfully curated selection of local, sustainable, and healthy foods, including an extensive bulk department.
• TinyShop Grocer: This online-only zero-waste shop offers dry goods, home, hygiene products, and prepared foods all packed in fully returnable containers.
• The Turtle Stop: A tiny but mighty retail shop in Back of the Yards, offering products made at The Plant, everyday groceries, and plastic-free household essentials.

These businesses empower us to make conscious choices, reducing our environmental impact one refill at a time.

Conscious Consumption: From Clothing to Home Goods

Beyond groceries and personal care, Chicago offers a wealth of options for conscious consumption in other areas of our lives, from slow fashion to sustainably sourced home goods. We believe that what we choose to bring into our homes and wear on our bodies can be a powerful statement for sustainability.

• Meliora Cleaning Products: This Chicago-based company manufactures people- and planet-friendly home cleaning and laundry products. They emphasize better ingredients, plastic-free packaging, and transparency, listing every ingredient used.
• Bliss Joy Bull: An Edgewater-based clothing repair and upcycling studio, they offer visible mending workshops, custom clothing repair, and unique upcycled clothing from vintage and secondhand materials. It's a fantastic way to extend the life of our garments.
• Logan Mercantile: This sustainable home & lifestyle shop in Logan Square carries everything from brooms to recyclable cookware, all sourced from makers with sustainable business and production practices, ethical sourcing, and fair wages.
• Lena Rose Beauty: A holistic spa and salon in Lincoln Square that also sells sustainable beauty products. They champion a world where clean and sustainable beauty is the standard.
• MOLASSES: A Chicago-based slow studio in Ravenswood, featuring sustainable wares and vintage curations with a focus on natural fibers and gender neutrality.
• Ecodunia: A social enterprise that makes high-quality bags and gifts from sustainably sourced materials, supporting fair prices for small producers.
• Wulfka: This small, independent fashion company is dedicated to slow fashion, thoughtful design, and gorgeous eco-friendly fabrics.
• Green Diaper Babies: For families, this service offers ethically sourced and commercially cleaned cloth diapers, serving the Chicagoland area.
• Open Water: A woman-owned, carbon-neutral company selling purified water in infinitely recyclable aluminum cans as an alternative to plastic bottles.
• Jute Connection: Offers stylish, sustainable everyday bags handcrafted from natural jute, blending eco-conscious design with functional flair.
• E.E. Mercantile & Co.: Provides earth-friendly goods made with sustainable materials, ethical practices, and eco-conscious packaging.
• Freedomlei: Offers 100% vegan artisanal bath, beauty, and wellness products online.
• Greener Good: A nonprofit shop in Arlington Heights, IL, offering low-cost secondhand art and school supplies, along with sustainability-focused workshops.
• Remade in Chicago: Transforms pre-owned garments and fabrics into unique objects and wearable art, even offering screen printing workshops.
• Event Planning: Companies like Eco Chic Events, Ecofixr, Purpose, and Sustainable Soirées offer eco-friendly solutions for events, from rentable decorations to waste reduction practices.
• Promotional Products & Services: Eco Promotional Products, Ink Forest, and Snail Catalog provide sustainable options for businesses.
• Sustainable Home Services: Earthpaint sells high-quality recycled paint, and Harmony Haus offers environmentally conscious painting services.
• Eco-Friendly Florists: Many Chicago florists, including Anemone, Evanston Lands, Field & Florist, Fleur, Flowers By Stem, Monarch Beauty Farm, Pollen, Romee Willow Florals, and Southside Blooms, prioritize local sourcing, composting, and eliminating floral foam. For weddings, the Green Wedding Alliance is a great resource.

As we furnish our homes and curate our wardrobes, we can make choices that reflect our commitment to a greener planet. For those seeking modern living, many apartments, like ours, are designed with amenities that complement a conscious lifestyle. We invite you to explore modern apartment features that align with your values.

The Circular Economy in Action: Sharing & Repair

The circular economy is all about keeping resources in use for as long as possible, extracting the maximum value from them while in use, then recovering and regenerating products and materials at the end of each service life. In Chicago, this translates into fantastic community resources for sharing, repairing, and reusing.

• Chicago Tool Library: Why buy new when you can borrow? This nonprofit lending library in West Garfield Park boasts over 2,500 tools, including everything from standard hardware to camping and arts & crafts equipment. It’s a brilliant example of collaborative consumption.
• Working Bikes: Located in Little Village, Working Bikes gives donated bicycles new life. They refurbish some for local sales, fix others for local donation, and ship the majority to global communities. It's a powerful way to reduce waste and empower communities.
• Rebuilding Exchange and Evanston Rebuilding Warehouse: These organizations offer public retail warehouses of reclaimed home items, deconstruction services, educational workshops, and even workforce training programs. It's a hub for giving materials a second life.
• Creative Chicago Reuse Exchange (CCRx): A nonprofit offering free and low-cost reuse and surplus materials, supplies, and equipment for nonprofit and community organizations, artists, and educators in Auburn Gresham.
• The Wasteshed: In Humboldt Park and Evanston, The Wasteshed collects reusable art and school materials that would otherwise be discarded, making them available at low cost.
• Evanston West End Tool Library: Provides neighbors with free access to commonly used home-repair and gardening tools, fostering sharing and community.
• The Coffee & Tea Exchange: An independent coffee roaster in East Lakeview since 1975, they encourage customers to bring clean containers to fill with coffee beans, loose leaf teas, herbs, and spices.
• Moving Services: Companies like Blue Crates, BoxBeaters, and Redi-Box offer reusable plastic moving boxes, alleviating the need for cardboard and tape.
• Junk Removal & Organization: Honest Junk Company is Chicago’s only nonprofit junk removal service, diverting 100% of usable items from landfills to charity. Similarly, Resourceful Organization and WasteNot focus on repurposing and reusing.

These initiatives exemplify how we can collectively reduce waste and build a more resourceful community.

Get Involved: Chicago's Green Events and Community Action

One of the most exciting aspects of sustainable living Chicago is the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and participate in community-driven initiatives. Our city is buzzing with events and volunteer opportunities that make going green fun and accessible.

Mark Your Calendar: The Sustainability Market & More

We love celebrating sustainability, and one of the best ways to do that is by attending local events. The Sustainability Market is a highlight in Chicago's green calendar.

• Sustainability Market 2024: Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 29, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Northcenter Town Square (4100 N. Damen Ave). This annual event features over 20 local small businesses, artists, and organizations dedicated to making Chicago more sustainable. We can browse unique eco-friendly products, learn about local initiatives, and connect with our community. The market also features special activities like material collections for reuse/recycling (including a Halloween costume swap!), sustainable food and drink vendors, and live music. It’s a fantastic way to support local, reduce our waste, and have a good time. We can even volunteer to help host this "shindig" or become a sponsor to support organizations like Reduce Waste Chicago. To stay informed about other green happenings, following groups like Chicago Environmentalists community is a great idea.

How to Practice Sustainable Living in Chicago Daily

Beyond big events, incorporating sustainable practices into our daily lives is key. It's often the small, consistent actions that make the biggest difference.

• Composting Services: Reduce food waste by signing up for a local composting service. Companies like WasteNot in Oak Park make it easy to divert organic materials from landfills.
• Urban Farming: Support local urban farms or even start your own small garden. Initiatives like Southside Blooms, Monarch Beauty Farm, and The Roof Crop demonstrate how urban spaces can be transformed into thriving green areas that provide fresh produce and flowers, fostering a stronger connection to our food sources.
• Community Cleanups: Join local cleanup efforts in parks, along the river, or in our neighborhoods. These are excellent ways to directly contribute to a cleaner environment and meet fellow community members.
• Supporting Local: Always choose local businesses when possible. This reduces transportation emissions, supports our local economy, and often means getting products made with more sustainable practices.
• Responsible Consumption: Think before you buy. Can you borrow it instead of buying? Can you buy it used? Can you repair it? The resources mentioned in the "Circular Economy" section are perfect for this mindset.

Embracing these practices allows us to actively participate in building a more sustainable Chicago, right from our doorstep. And for those seeking a home that supports this mindset, finding a thoughtfully designed space is key. We invite you to find your ideal studio apartment in Chicago that complements a green lifestyle.

The Perks of a Greener Lifestyle in the Windy City

Embracing sustainable living Chicago isn't just about environmental responsibility; it brings a wealth of benefits directly to us and our communities. From cleaner air to healthier finances, the advantages are tangible and far-reaching. It's about creating a more vibrant and resilient urban experience, aligning perfectly with the ethos of Modern Living Chicago.

Sustainable Transportation: Navigating Chicago Eco-Friendly

Getting around Chicago doesn't have to mean contributing to carbon emissions. Our city offers excellent options for sustainable transportation, making it easy to reduce our carbon footprint while staying connected.

• Public Transit (CTA): Chicago's extensive CTA system of trains and buses is an incredibly efficient way to traverse the city. Opting for public transit over driving significantly reduces individual emissions and traffic congestion.
• Divvy Bikes: With Divvy bike-share stations scattered across the city, we have instant access to bikes for short commutes or leisurely rides. It’s a fun, healthy, and eco-friendly way to explore.
• Walkability: Chicago is known for its walkable neighborhoods. Choosing to walk whenever possible is not only zero-emission but also a great way to stay active and find hidden gems in our community.
• Bike-Friendly Routes: The city continues to expand its network of bike lanes and trails, making cycling an enjoyable mode of transport. Educational bike shops like The Recyclery Collective in Rogers Park promote sustainability by giving access to tools and skills, while companies like ZappaWheels provide sustainable bicycle accessories. Many modern apartment communities, including our own, offer convenient apartments with bike storage, encouraging residents to accept two-wheeled travel.

Benefits for You and Your Community

The collective impact of sustainable choices ripples throughout our city, creating a healthier and more connected urban environment.

• Improved Air Quality: By reducing emissions from buildings and transportation, we directly contribute to cleaner air, which is vital for community health and well-being.
• Green Spaces: Sustainable practices often involve expanding and protecting green spaces, such as urban gardens, parks, and even rooftop gardens. These areas improve biodiversity, manage stormwater, and provide peaceful retreats from city life. For example, access to rooftop access for fresh air provides a serene escape right in our own building.
• Community Connection: Engaging in sustainable initiatives, from volunteering at a community garden to attending a local sustainability market, builds strong bonds among residents. This sense of shared purpose fosters a vibrant and supportive community.
• Wellness: A greener lifestyle often translates to better personal health. More walking and biking, access to fresh local foods, and reduced exposure to pollutants all contribute to our overall wellness. Many apartment communities now prioritize amenities that support a healthy lifestyle, offering more than just a place to live. We believe in providing the best, which is why we've curated exceptional apartment community amenities for our residents.
• Household Savings: As highlighted in Chicago's Climate Action Plan, energy efficiency upgrades and conscious consumption can lead to significant household savings, freeing up resources for other priorities.
• Carbon Footprint Reduction: Every sustainable action, no matter how small, contributes to the city's overall goal of reducing its carbon footprint, helping Chicago lead the way in climate action.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sustainable Living in Chicago

What is the easiest way to start living sustainably in Chicago?

The easiest way to start your sustainable living journey in Chicago is to begin with small, manageable changes. We recommend carrying reusable bags for shopping and a refillable water bottle to avoid single-use plastics. Another great step is to visit a local farmers' market to support sustainable agriculture and reduce your food miles. Consider trying just one refillable product from a store like The Eco Flamingo for your cleaning supplies or personal care items. These simple swaps can significantly reduce your daily waste and get you into a greener mindset.

How is Chicago promoting green buildings?

Chicago is actively promoting green buildings through a multi-faceted approach. We implement policies like the Sustainable Development Policy, which sets standards for city-assisted projects and new developments. Initiatives such as Retrofit Chicago encourage energy efficiency upgrades in existing buildings. The city also mandates energy benchmarking for many buildings, raising awareness of energy performance and encouraging savings. Furthermore, Chicago encourages green roofs and sets high environmental standards for all new municipal buildings, including features like green cleaning and sustainable procurement practices.

Where can I find zero-waste stores in Chicago?

Chicago is home to a growing number of fantastic zero-waste stores and refilleries, making it convenient to shop sustainably. You can find these eco-friendly havens in various neighborhoods across the city. Key areas include Lincoln Square, Logan Square, and Humboldt Park. Some prominent examples include The Eco Flamingo, The Unwaste Shop, and Dill Pickle Food Co-Op. These shops specialize in offering bulk goods, allowing you to bring your own containers to refill household products, pantry staples, and personal care items, significantly reducing packaging waste.

Conclusion

As we've explored, sustainable living Chicago is a dynamic and changing landscape, supported by ambitious city-wide plans, a thriving network of local businesses, and an engaged community. From the city's commitment to reducing carbon emissions by 62% by 2040 through its 2022 Climate Action Plan, to the proliferation of zero-waste stores, refilleries, and community initiatives, Chicago is making it easier and more rewarding than ever to accept a greener lifestyle.

We've seen how local businesses play a crucial role, offering everything from bulk goods and sustainable fashion to eco-friendly event planning and bike repair. We've also highlighted the numerous ways individuals can participate, whether by attending a Sustainability Market, volunteering for a cleanup, or simply choosing sustainable transportation options. The benefits of these efforts extend beyond environmental impact, fostering improved community health, increasing household savings, and strengthening the bonds that make Chicago such a unique place to live.

At The Ardus Apartments, we understand the desire for modern living that respects our environment and community. Our change of a former warehouse into stylish apartments in River North blends historical charm with contemporary features, offering amenities that support a vibrant urban lifestyle. We encourage you to be a part of Chicago's green pulse and find how accessible and rewarding sustainable living can be. To find a home that aligns with these values, we invite you to discover beautiful apartment complexes in Chicago, IL and join us in building a more sustainable future.