Sustainability at The Charles Hotel

Advanced monitoring and energy-efficient alternatives allow for us to control systems, while still providing the ideal guest amenities. Water-saving measures are implemented in the kitchens and guest rooms, as well as in all landscaped areas. LED lighting in guest rooms, public areas, and heart-of-house spaces help reduce energy use by 75% compared to incandescent bulbs. We also provide conveniently located electric vehicle charging stations for guest use on property, and allow guests the choice to opt out of daily housekeeping to conserve energy and water. 

Guests are encouraged to use complimentary filtered water stations with reusable bottles to reduce plastic waste. We also offer refillable PATH bottles, made in the US with 100% recyclable aluminum. The Charles Hotel has eliminated single-use plastics in guest rooms and plastic-free packaging for dining to-go items. You will find large-format bath amenities by Grown Alchemist in each guest room, with leftover toiletries recycled and distributed to communities in need via our partnership with Clean the World. We have a 100% organic waste diversion system in place, as well as comprehensive recycling of cardboard, paper, plastics, aluminum, kitchen oil, batteries, electronics, and lightbulbs. 

The Charles Hotel works with its community to source local, seasonal ingredients from local farms– supporting these businesses, as well as reducing our carbon footprint. Henrietta’s Table has been a pioneer in farm-to-table dining for over 30 years, now utilizing on-site herb and vegetable gardens for use in our kitchens and bars. You’ll also find our bee garden, buzzing with action to support local pollinators in a pesticide-free environment. During your stay, you can also visit the Charles Square Farmers Market: hosted Fridays and Sundays, featuring local farmers and producers year-round. 

Our Concierge team connects guests with local experiences, such as: New England Aquarium’s ocean sustainability efforts; Historic trips to Salem, Newport, and Nantucket; and Tours of Harvard University and the Glass Flowers exhibit at the Harvard Museum of Natural History.

In addition to sustainability through guest services, The Charles Hotel is actively involved in community efforts. From neighborhood clean-up events to regular donations of linens, terry and supplies to local charities, we are always looking for ways to give back. You can experience on-site events, like our Annual Earth Day Celebration, featuring local vendors and educational sessions on sustainability practices, or community events hosted  in our Garden Bar that celebrate the rich diversity and culture of our neighborhood.