Women paving the way forward in Green design

Greenissexy.org caught up with green building and LEED consultant Lauren Gropper to learn about green building, her super cool entourage and why “shift” is more than a key on your keyboard

Where did you grow up? 

I grew up in Vancouver, Canada.

How did growing up in Vancouver influence your greenness? 

Vancouver is a super green city and the natural environment is very much a part of the city itself, so I definitely developed an appreciation for all things green early on.

What made you want to pursue Environmental Planning and Design? 

I was always interested in cities, the way they’re designed, and the ways in which we relate to our environment. I had also studied geography and environmental studies in college. So, pursuing sustainable design was a great way to combine my love of design and the built environment with sustainability.

You have a Masters of Science in Environmental Planning and Design. What is that, exactly? 

Good question!! It’s basically the study of sustainable urban planning and the design of more sustainable environments, beyond the building scale.

Tell us about your latest project, SHFT: 

I just launched an environmental media platform called SHFT with Adrian Grenier and Peter Glatzer. We offer original video series, curated shopping, and a host of resources that speak to a modern, inspirational, sustainable lifestyle.

What drew you to the new project? 

I’ve been working with Adrian and Peter for several years, and it was something that we developed together after they approached me with the concept.

What is the easiest and most affordable thing everyone can do in their own home to make it greener? 

I know this sounds very boring and cliche, but turning off your lights when you leave the room and switching out your incancesdents for CFCs or LEDs is a great start.

In addition to consulting on green building projects, you also consult on various television shows…. 

A few years ago I hosted and consulted on a green show for HGTV in Toronto, and shortly after that I was a consulting producer on a show for Discovery’s Green channel called “Alter Eco” – which was created by Adrian Grenier and Peter Glatzer, my business partners in SHFT.

You work in both New York and Los Angeles. Is it easier to be green on the East or the West coast? 

You have such hard questions!! They both have their advantages and disadvantages. LA is great for fresh, local, and organic food and NY is amazing because of accessibility and an incredible public transit system, though the green attitude is definitely present in both places, and growing.

What’s next for you? 

I’ve also recently launched a line of compostable cups and cutlery made from plants called Repurpose. All of our products can be composted in 90 days.

Do you have an eco-indulgence? 

Long showers!

For more info on Lauren check out her website