VIVA NOLA September 2018

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
FORW ARD Sym posi u m : En abl i n g an
en vi r on m en tal l y an d soci al l y r espon si bl e, heal thy
an d pr osper ou s Lou i si an a for al l .
by Alejandr a Guzm an
@aleguzm an
The economic and social success of our
community is dependent upon how well we can
create balance and promote sustainable practices
in the business and public sectors, education, and
society in general.
To achieve this, we must rely on a foundation of
awareness and education on the matter.
Organizations around the world, such as U.S.
Green Building Council (USGBC), are taking a
leading role in these efforts.
This organization with an
international footprint
promotes a movement
of community leaders,
professionals,
businesses and
innovators working to
accomplish healthy,
efficient communities,
and to develop
equitable buildings.
I have the honor of serving
as a board member for the
USGBC Louisiana chapter. Our group´s mission is
to transform the way buildings and communities are
designed, built and operated, enabling an
environmentally and socially responsible, healthy
and prosperous Louisiana for all.
One of our signature programs is the FORWARD
Symposium and for the past three years it has
focused on engaging a diverse community of
forward thinking leaders who will be key to moving
the state towards a more resilient future. The event
is open to USGBC member and non-member
business professionals, environmentalists,
architects, educators, nonprofit leaders, economic
developers, and students.
Participants will be able to collaborate and explore
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what is happening across the state in the subject of
sustainability. Among some of the preferred topics
for this year will include coastal restoration, LEED
for cities, equity as a growth strategy, and healthy
communities.
Another highlight of the program includes the
Women in Sustainability Empower (WISE)
Breakfast, which is designed to engage the
audience in a robust discussion with prominent
female leaders in the field of green building, urban
development, community
revitalization, and equity and
inclusion.
During the symposium
participants will also learn
about the USGBC
Louisiana Green Schools
Initiative. This includes a
yearly competition in which
we encourage schools to
undertake a green project to
make their school and
communities a healthier place
to live, learn, and grow.
Our objective with this initiative is to bring
awareness and educate our youth on the benefits
of green building and environmental stewardship by
participating in hands-on experimental projects.
During our 2017-2018 cycle, we were able to reach
7,400+ people in 21 parishes and 91 schools
across Louisiana.
We are excited to continue this work and trust that
our programs will help inspire people across our
state to act by enabling an environmentally, socially
responsible, healthy and prosperous Louisiana for
all.
To find out more about the FORWARD Symposium
visit https://usgbclouisiana.site-ym.com/
Until next time!