As part of its ongoing environmental stewardship program, the Fairmont Washington D.C. is aiding in the effort to protect the vanishing honeybee population by installing three beehives on its rooftop.

Honey created by the 105,00 Italian honeybees residing in the hives will be used by hotel culinary staff in soups, salad dressings, pastries, ice cream and other dishes in the hotel's restaurant Juniper.

Eventually, the Fairmont hopes to use the honeycomb to create candles, soaps and even lip balm, according to executive sous chef and beekeeper Ian Bens.

The Fairmont chain has similar hives at other properties.