Abstract
The restoration of New Orleans and the rest of the Mississippi delta after hurricane Katrina can become another disaster waiting to happen, or it can become a model of sustainable development. Sea level is rising, precipitation patterns are changing, hurricane intensity is increasing, energy costs are predicted to increase dramatically, and the city is continuing to sink. Most of the city is currently from 0.6-5 m (2-15 feet) below sea level. In this context, the conventional approach of simply rebuilding the levees and the city behind them can only be a delaying action. But if New Orleans, and the delta in which it is located, can develop and pursue a new paradigm, it can be a truly unique, sustainable and desirable city, and an inspiration to people around the world. This paper discusses the underlying causes and implications of the Katrina disaster, basic goals for a sustainable redevelopment initiative, and seven principles necessary for a sustainable vision for the future of New Orleans and the Mississippi delta.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Ecological Dimensions for Sustainable Socio Economic Development |
Editors | A Yanez-Arancibia, R Davalos-Sotelo, J W Day and E Reyes |
Place of Publication | United Kingdom |
Publisher | WIT Press |
Pages | 245-260 |
Volume | 1 |
Edition | 1 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781845647568 |
Publication status | Published - 2013 |