Few US cities have had to deal with such widespread devastation as New Orleans. And few other US cities have had the opportunity to rebuild in a "greener" way. So how is New Orleans taking advantage of that opportunity? Solar technology, green building jobs, weather stripping, compact fluorescent light bulbs, urban organic farming, new bicycle lanes, 39 hybrid buses, and restoration of natural habitats that protect the city from storm surge. You can read all about it here:http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5joX1V3yloqxJTw174TlyCRg6fHpAD95VFHG80
UNC students have played a part in this rebuilding effort. A group of APPLES Service Learning Students made a trip down to New Orleans for an Alternative Spring Break Program last year. Students on the Hurricane Relief program worked with Common Ground on wetlands restoration, home insulation, painting and bioremediation projects. Interested in joining an Alternative Break service learning trip? Learn more at:
Students at the School of Law at the UNC have also assisted in the recovery of New Orleans. In fact, they have been recognized with the Pro Bono Law School of the Year award for providing free legal assistance to New Orleans residents. These UNC law students have been spending spring and winter breaks working in the area since Hurricane Katrina devastated the city in 2005. Follow their blog at:
-Brian Cain, Research & Outreach Manager, UNC Sustainability Office
