It's Not Easy Being Green

Celebrity cause-mongering has become about as ubiquitous as Lindsay Lohan's DUIs--to the point where it practically seems to accompany the job title. Every A-lister is attached to one, no matter how far-fetched or non-philanthrophic-seeming (think: Jessica Simpson as the face of Operation Smile, a charity dedicated to reconstructive surgery in developing nations...because that surely tops the list of worries for residents in countries like Somalia).

However, there are still causes worth putting one's full weight behind--and noble celebrities to support them--as was proven last night for the fourth straight year at San Francisco's annual Global Green benefit, Gorgeous and Green. The U.S. branch of Gorbachev's Green Cross International, Global Green's initiative is to create a sustainable future for all of mankind, through educating others on green housing, schools, living and more.

"We aim to raise awareness about the organization, our climate crisis, our solutions to global warming through green schools and housing," explained the organization's CEO and president, Matt Petersen. "We're doing a lot to help return people to their homes in New Orleans--working with Brad Pitt--and increase energy efficiency in their houses so they can afford to stay there. Tonight, it's all about that great work, and we're also celebrating the future of our president-elect and his green initiative."

Co-chaired by Petersen, 7x7 contributor Zem Joaquin and Nadine Weil, the gala packed the main hall at LEED-certified building, the Bently Reserve, with guests from city government officials sporting Armani suits to self-sustaining treehuggers bedecked in Bohemian skirts and tie-dye, and everyone in between (in other words, it was your typical Bay Area Tuesday night). Kate Bosworth of Blue Crush fame, hosted the event, which began with cocktails, appetizers, spa treatments, makeup applications and more by eco-friendly sponsors TCHO, Just Desserts, O Organics, VeeV, Square One Organic Vodka, Epicenter Med Spa, International Orange and Jane Iredale,  and followed with a fashion show (showcasing only green cocktail fashions, of course).

"It sounds very cliche, but I feel very passionate about saving the world," said Bosworth early in the evening. "Not that I can do it individually, but hopefully everyone collectively can do it and be inspired to be a part of that."

Other celebrities in attendance were Sebastian Siegel, Daphne Zuniga, Darren Moore and Elliot Yamin, who treated the VIPs at the Patron Reception to a special musical performance. Mayor Gavin Newsom, who has had a heavy hand in the Bay Area's green movement, and his leading lady, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, were also there.