The Big Easy Embraces Green Travel and Lifestyle Five Years after Katrina

Five years ago, New Orleans was unrecognizable. Today, New Orleans is a travel destination for enjoying all that nature has to offer. However, five years ago, one of the costliest and most destructive hurricanes in US history made landfall in New Orleans, wreaking havoc from the French Quarter to Biloxi, Mississippi and beyond. When the levies gave way to the pressure endured by the storm, the entire city of New Orleans was destroyed. All week, several media outlets are taking a look back at the city before Katrina, immediately after Katrina, and how it has evolved into the New Orleans of today. While it has been a controversial ride, to say the least, New Orleans emerged as a vibrant city with a new identity, an identity that includes making green living a priority. Travel down to the Big Easy and see firsthand how this city has managed to become a better, greener New Orleans.

One of the greatest examples of New Orleans's commitment to green living is its renewed interest in creating community parks. Not only are these community parks protected green spaces, but they are yet another avenue for community involvement. Travel to one of the many green spaces around the city to mingle with the locals, or to just inhale that fresh Gulf of Mexico breeze! And speaking of green spaces, New Orleans and Louisiana as a state are redefining what it means to farm. There are several organic, sustainable farms developing throughout the state. Add a farm tour to your travel plans by visiting a farm like Port Hudson Organics in Zachary, LA, about an hour west of New Orleans. Port Hudson Organics produces organic produce, herbs, flowers, and more. Visit their blog or call at (225) 658-8526.

New Orleans is known for its unique visual and performing arts environment. Legendary performers such as Winston Marsalis, Louis Armstrong, and heavy metal bands like Crowbar. Adding to that eclectic mix of artists are true artists themselves. The local art market has blossomed since the revitalization of the city. These local artists are adding a new component to their work- sustainable art work. Long gone are the days of immediately discarding unwanted material scraps. The local art market now makes a concerted effort to recycle their used materials, creating and selling new art pieces made out of materials formerly seen as trash. Their creations are quite a sight, so be sure to add one of these art attractions to your itinerary. Visit the Arts Council of New Orleans for more information.

New Orleans has initiated a green movement in the south. Community efforts like Go Green NOLA are bringing the importance of green living to consciousness. Support their efforts by visiting the city that is becoming legendary for new green reasons.

Photo Credit: David Paul Ohmer