Energy For All

No life is possible without energy. Development implies that energy is affordable, ecologically sound and that it is used in a socially responsible way. The amount of energy available per capita has a direct influence on infant mortality, life expectancy and illiteracy. Furthermore energy is not equally available to all: on the one hand those who waste energy, on the other hand those who do not have enough or cannot afford it.

The outlook for energy is somewhat bleak - the warning signs are here but they are being ignore: firstly, we cannot overlook the fact that in the near future, we will have to reduce the consumption of energy per capita; secondly, we will have to use all kinds of renewables more extensively, without demonizing the nuclear energy; finally, we will have to find better ways in which to use nuclear energy in order to avoid its possible proliferation.

At present, the energy policy needs some sort of a paradigmatic shift. We know enough to start moving in the right direction. In spite of many positive aspects of globalization, it might be a good idea to avoid being overly dependent on energy sources which in the long run are unsustainable at any rate.

This year, the Energy Film Festival focuses on the theme of «Energy for Mankind», as this idea is becoming increasingly important. Recent events worldwide tend to conceal the fact that we are still faced with formidable obstacles preventing us to move in the right direction in the field of energy. We hope that this film festival will help people to understand the challenges at hand, and at the same time, be an entertaining and meaningful event. It is imperative for the young generation to be more involved in dealing with these challenges. We wish to express our deepest gratitude to the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne for their support in helping us to organize this event and we thank them for hosting this festival.

Meinrad K. Eberle President of the Foundation of the International Festival of Film on Energy Lausanne