Nature-based solutions for commercial buildings in Chicago

Alvéole leverages bees on your commercial building to help you boost tenant engagement and achieve your sustainability goals.

The Alvéole bees have been buzzing in Chicago since 2019. The city’s commitment to sustainability is evident, with rooftop gardens and eco-friendly architecture dotting the skyline. Bee-friendly flowers like bee balm and coneflowers provide essential nutrients for pollinators. Chicago offers a dynamic blend of city living and eco-consciousness, where residents and bees live in harmony.

Bring nature-based solutions to your building

Use your property to make a lasting impact on your community and city.

Nature-focused amenities

Nature-focused amenities

Foster a sense of attachment to the building with bee habitats and branded jars of honey from your own property.

Environmental workshops

Environmental workshops

From beekeeping 101 to bottling your own honey, you’ll have everything you need to make your building events unforgettable.

Sustainability initiatives

Sustainability initiatives

Earn green building certifications, foster environmental awareness, and support nature in the city.

Nature and biodiversity monitoring

Nature and biodiversity monitoring

Enhance your ESG report 
and make informed 
decisions to support biodiversity.

Join the movement in Chicago

A few of our clients in Chicago

Bozzuto
Hines
Tishman Speyer
JLL

Local client spotlight

EQ Office

EQ Office’s mission is to create spaces and experiences where people thrive.

The commercial real estate company was looking for an engagement and sustainability solution and found their answer in Alvéole’s services.

The turnkey honey bee hive program was easy to implement and run. The beehive sits on a patio where building occupants can watch the bees at work.

The related workshops and activities are well-attended and have opened participants’ eyes to the natural world surrounding them. There is even a bar within the building where people can enjoy a signature drink featuring EQ Office’s own honey!

The EQ Office team cites the program’s support in creating a unique and engaging experience for their tenants’ employees, leading to higher tenant retention rates.

Follow the EQ Office bees

Align with Chicago’s green regulations

The Chicago Nature & Wildlife Plan aims to implement programs to monitor populations of endangered and threatened species over the long term. It also focuses on increasing public awareness of the importance of biodiversity conservation.

Why choose Alvéole?

Put your trust in an experienced partner

We work with over 350 buildings in Chicago and 2500+ leading organizations across North America and Europe.

Promote community engagement and wellness

Take part in educational team building activities and stay connected through an online platform dedicated to your nature-based program.

Increase the value of your property

Attract tenants and investors by showcasing your environmental initiatives.

Strengthen your sustainability strategy

Access data-focused sustainability metrics and earn points towards green building certifications.

Alvéole in the media

WBBM NewsRadio - Downtown Chicago abuzz with urban beehives
CBS News Chicago - A 'Truly Magical' Hive Of Activity In The Loop, Thanks To Urban Beekeepers At Alvéole
Forbes - Rooftop Romp: How Office Owners Can Unlock Value On The Top Floor

Frequently asked questions

Urban beekeeping in Chicago is regulated by the Chicago Department of Public Health, which requires beekeepers to register their hives and adhere to specific guidelines regarding hive placement and maintenance. These regulations ensure the safety and well-being of both bees and residents. Professional Alvéole beekeepers ensure compliance with all local regulations and best practices.

Urban beekeeping is safe, with many successful bee programs operating throughout Chicago. At Alvéole, we work with a special breed of Italian honey bees selected for their docility. Honey bees are gentle creatures who (almost) never sting without reason. Unless they feel threatened, bees have no motivation to sting – in fact, once they sting, they lose their stinger along with a part of their abdomen, and die.

Wild bees are as peaceful as honey bees. They technically can sting, but they don’t. Docile and nonterritorial, they’re extremely gentle. Unless they’re being touched, they simply go about their business.

A bee program supports Chicago’s sustainability initiatives, including the goals outlined in the Chicago Sustainable Development Policy. A bee program promotes urban biodiversity and provides educational opportunities about the importance of pollinators in maintaining healthy ecosystems. This aligns with Chicago’s broader efforts to foster environmental stewardship, promote urban agriculture, and create a more sustainable and resilient city.

Ready to make an impact in Chicago?

Discover how Alvéole can help you meet your sustainability and social impact goals.

Book a demo