Interview with a Global Green Activist ...

Through the Holy Cross Project, Global Green is committed to: Creating a green model or showcase for development and rebuilding for New Orleans, and green affordable housing in the US; Ensuring the sustainability and long term affordability of the Project’s housing units for residents, and socioeconomic fabric of the neighborhood through the center; Educating NOLA residents, the Gulf Coast and broader American public through the Project’s visitors center, NOLA resource center, and website about the benefits of green building. Advancing smart solutions to global warming that both benefit communities (e.g., affordable housing, schools) and engage stakeholders in building will for action. The Holy Cross Project consists of 5 single-family homes, an 18-unit apartment building, and a community center/ sustainable design and climate action center. The goal of the project is to achieve LEED Platinum standards (LEED for Home for the single family homes and LEED NC for the other buildings), net zero energy and carbon neutral building. By using solar panels, high performance building design, HVAC systems, energy and resource monitoring systems, and energy efficient appliances, the buildings in the Holy Cross Project will use at least 75% less energy than typical buildings. In addition, Global Green is also exploring the use of river turbines in the adjacent Mississipi River. Revitalizing the Holy Cross Neighborhood As a landmark sustainable development, the Global Green Holy Cross Project is of vital importance to Global Green, the Holy Cross Neighborhood and the people of New Orleans. The success of the project will act as a beacon for sustainable affordable housing development and will create a model that can be replicated by communities around the world. By utilizing multiple green and healthy building strategies, the Global Green Holy Cross Project will add real value by reducing long-term operating costs from energy and water bills, create a healthier living environment by eliminating toxic materials, protect the environment through the use of sustainable materials and empower the people of the Lower 9th Ward to work toward a healthy and sustainable future. About Global Green Global Green USA is a national environmental organization that merges innovative research, cutting-edge community based projects and targeted advocacy to create a sustainable future.