Global Green USA is the American branch of Green Cross International, whose mission is to create a global value shift toward a more sustainable future by working to diminish global warming, expand green building and green schools, eliminate weapons of mass destruction, and ensure access to clean water. The organization hosted its 5th Annual San Francisco Benefit Party on December 8th, the Gorgeous and Green Gala, with a sold-out crowd of over 500 guests.

Held at the W San Francisco, the seventh existing hotel in the country to earn its LEED green certification, the event celebrated the organization’s efforts across the Bay Area and the country to advance smart climate solutions including green affordable housing, solar energy, and green schools.

“As the world’s leaders prepare to gather at the Copenhagen Climate Summit, it is particularly appropriate to celebrate our significant climate initiatives with our San Francisco supporters,” said Global Green President Matt Petersen.  “They are helping to insure the continued success of our work to reduce carbon emissions by creating healthy, affordable green housing and schools for families and communities throughout the Bay Area and across the U.S.”

The event entitled “Gorgeous and Green” was co-chaired by Zem Joaquin and Nadine Weil.  Notable guests on the green carpet included San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, actor Peter Mensah (Spartacus, Avatar), supermodel Josie Maran, eco-adventurer David de Rothschild, Platinum recording artist Matt Nathanson, the reigning Iron Chef Mourad Lahlou from Aziza, event vice-chairs Amber Marie and Christopher Bently, famous eco-artist Sage Vaughn, and CA Assemblymember Nancy Skinner.

During the program, Global Green celebrated its partnership with Habitat for Humanity and PG&E to help build the first LEED Gold certified Habitat homes in California.  The Edes Avenue development in Oakland will be celebrating its Home Dedication this weekend, and two new Habitat families were in attendance at the event.

Global Green was especially pleased that many of its ongoing sponsors helped make the event possible.  Platinum sponsors included W Hotel, PG&E, eBay, and Pureology-a national sponsor of Global Green’s.  The Cleantech sponsors were Rabobank and SolarCity. Audi’s new clean diesel A3 was the green car sponsor of the party. In addition, Global Green announced a national sponsorship with organic 360 Vodka.  Additional support and wine was provided by Newton Vineyard.

A major highlight of the evening was the runway Gorgeous & Green Eco-Fashion Show by Clarissa Nicosia and Lily Achatz showcasing the top eco-fashion designers in the world.  Featured apparel included 10.A.K., Andrea Lusener, Eco Citizen, Leila Hafzi, Mr. Larkin, Nina Skarra, Noir, Puridee, Robin Brouillette, Sara Shepherd, Cari Borja, Magdalena Schaffrin, Livity, and PACT underwear, which debuted a new Global Green butterfly pattern benefiting Global Green.

Featured accessories included Amber Marie Bently Jewelry, Blank Verse Jewelry, and Litter Jewelry.  Featured shoes included Tashkent, Cri Di Coeur, and Terra Plana.  Cosmetics were provided by Smashbox’s eco line.  Models were provided by Stars Model Management.  Special thanks were given to Vie Bungalow Showroom, Eco Citizen Boutique, and Karen Tamblyn.

The event began with an intimate VIP dinner prepared by Iron Chef Mourad Lahlou, Chef Louis Maldonado, and Pastry Chef Melissa Chou of Michelin Star Aziza Restaurant in San Francisco, and featured renowned artist Sage Vaughn who presented paintings benefiting Global Green. Guests then enjoyed performances by Platinum recording artist Matt Nathanson and DJ Donovan.

Pictured above: Josie Maran, Matt Petersen, Nadine Weil, Zem Joaquin

Bridget O'Malley Baldwin, Zem Joaquin, Matt Nathanson

Sandra Slater, Josie Maran

Runway

For more exclusive photos, please visit our events page.