The Chicago Center for Green Technology is the first rehabilitated municipal building in the nation to receive the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design ™ (LEED) Platinum rating by the U.S. Green Building Council. Mayor Richard M. Daley dedicated the building in 2002 and it has since become a national model for sustainable design and technology. The Center serves as the most comprehensive green design and educational resource in the Midwest.

Everything in the building is environmentally sustainable - from the floor and ceiling tiles (made from locally recycled materials) to the filtered rain water flowing through the pipes and the live green roof. Solar panels power the entire facility and the strategic low-e windows are designed to harvest as much sunlight as possible to light it's offices. The Chicago Center for Green Technology is said to have the "cleanest air in the city" because of it's displacement ventilation system.

Self-guided tours are encouraged, but the friendly staff are more than willing to answer your questions and show you around. The outside grounds are filled with beautiful native plantings and a greenhouse. The wetland and retention pond help direct rainwater to useful places. Walk around to learn more about native plants, the greenhouse, and the rain cisterns.

The Chicago Center for Green Technology is located at 445 N. Sacramento Blvd., Chicago IL 60612. Though public transportation is available and biking is encouraged, we suggest driving - since the surrounding area is undeveloped and can be dicey. Electric outlets for charging electric cars are marked by signs in the parking lot.