Title: A Conversation with Philippe Cousteau

In This Video: Philippe Cousteau shares his thoughts of linking environment, community and quality of life with CharityWorks members at the site of the CharityWorks GreenHouse in Mclean, Virginia.

The CharityWorks GreenHouse is a Designers' Show House Benefitting The Friendship Charter School, Washington, D.C. and the Mclean Project for the Arts. The GreenHouse is scheduled to open the Fall of 2009.

Featuring the ultimate in haute green design, the Charity Works Green House will offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience firsthand the new ethic of responsible luxury.

Project developers WEST*GROUP and GreenSpur, Inc. have assembled the best and brightest in green design and construction to create a house that represents a new approach to sustainability whereby more efficient building design, innovative technology and a smart location can be combined to reduce carbon emissions, the leading source of greenhouse gases.

Under the guidance of world-renowned designer, Barry Dixon, and Design Committee Vice Chair Victoria Neale, up to 18 premier designers will transform the house into a refuge and support system for a 21st century lifestyle focused on community connectivity, health, and greater respect for our planet.

The House also Features:

The use of a structurally Integrated Panel System (SIPS) that typically doubles the R-factor required by local building codes

Heating and cooling using a geothermal system

On-site electricity generation through photovoltaic panels and wind turbines

Rain water capture and grey water recycling systems

Sustainable landscaping and saltwater pool

Upon completion, the house is projected to use 70-80% less energy per square foot than a comparable new home, and its location will reduce even further the total carbon footprint of the family living there.

The CharityWorks GreenHouse will provide a platform for an interactive aesthetic and educational experience. Our goal is for each visitor to come away with a new appreciation of haute green interior design and the inspiration to incorporate into their own home.

Phillippe Cousteau is the 29 year-old son of Jan and Philippe Cousteau Sr., and the grandson of Captain Jacques-Yves Cousteau. As a member of the legendary family, Philippe is continuing the work of his father and grandfather through EarthEcho International, the non-profit organization he founded with his sister and mother and of which he serves as CEO.

In addition to his work with EarthEcho International, Philippe is co-founder of Azure Worldwide a strategic 'green lifestyle' consulting, destination and creative development company. Projects have included work with former AOL Chief Executive Steve Case's Revolution Places to provide eco-experiential programming for Cacique Costa Rica, a high-end, environmentally-friendly resort as well as environmental programming for eco-entertainment attractions in Singapore.