The theme of this year’s edition of the festival concerns energy and climate. Once again, you might say. Looking back, it seems we still have not got the message. Even if we are not ready to face the quite likely climate change resulting in a winner/loser situation – the losers most probably being the people who can least afford climate change - there is enough reason to modify some of our habits, bad habits I might add. Thus with the upcoming edition of the Energy Film Festival, the organizers hope to contribute towards a change in the way we deal with energy and the consequences thereof in the future.

A most interesting and stimulating programme awaits you. The afternoon of the first day of this year’s festival will be dedicated to the study of the latest findings regarding the physics and chemistry of climate change, and will particularly address the issue of fluids used in refrigeration and heat pumps. The morning of the second day will be entirely devoted to climate change with reference to global actions, which are definitely required. Ample time will be reserved for discussion and debate. Exhibitions and posters will round off the sessions.

In the afternoon of the second day, films, spots and documentaries will be shown, followed by a debate about climate change. The programme will be extraordinary, and will establish links between science, technology and the arts.

It is extremely important to involve the young generation in the energy dialogue, and demonstrate the need for action. Thus, the third day “Planète Kids” will be a bit of a novelty, with the presentation of a documentary entitled  “C’est pas sorcier”, targeting the young generation.

To conclude, I would like to thank all contributors, in other words speakers, debaters, film producers and participants. I wish to address my special thanks to all members of the jury, who ensure the high quality of the festival.

Furthermore, I would like to thank the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne for hosting and organizing the scientific part of the festival, as well as our partners – without whom the festival would not take place. And last but certainly not least, let me express my gratitude to those who put in an extraordinary effort to organize this festival which is getting better and better each time.