biosphere

The biosphere represents those natural elements on which humans depend for their survival. While human resilience is remarkable, it does not protect humans against too rapid a change where there is little time to adapt, or against extreme conditions that menace their survival.

How do we manage our relationship with the biosphere (that is, our ecological footprint)? Can we improve this relationship and, if so, how?

Three complex issues call for a fututre-oriented response to be implemented today to prepare for tomorrow.

climate change

Since the formation of Earth, the prevailing surface climate has changed with its geological eras and its complex weather system.

The variations that are currently happening are defined by the term "climate change", which refers less to the relatively sterile debate about the exact origin of this phenomenon than to our ability to adapt to this new situation. Once again, the combination of innovation and opportunity will help illuminate the future in this area.

[Foresight Expertise within the framework of "Séminaires Prospectivistes"]

[Lyon Metropolitan Area]
Lyon, France — 2004

natural resources

drinking water

70% of the Earth's surface is occupied by the hydrosphere (oceans, inland seas, lakes, rivers, water tables, etc..). Yet many countries are experiencing water stress, namely, the lack of drinking water. This phenomenon has a direct bearing on world geopolitics.

energy

Whether hydrocarbon reserves are in decline or not, we can easily understand that the issues of energy production are related to the available financial resources -either from countries or individuals. Energy is the very basis of the development of human societies and raises a number of questions: Is there no way to make the state of play less unequal? Is it possible to have lower levels of consumption while also living comfortably? Can we limit pollution without sacrificing growth?

[Rethinking energy: a macrohistorical approach]

[TUCK Foundation, think tank IDées]
Paris, France — September 02, 2010- ,

Energy, a crucial issue for the XXI century

EDF Young Executives Forum
Brussels, Belgium — November 03-04, 2004

Expertise regarding the future of the energy market

EDF University — E2DL
Presentation and moderation of a seminar Young Executives Forum
Brussels, Belgium — 2004

Sustainable Energy

International Conference Sensing the Future 2: Towards a Sustainable Energy Future in Egypt?
Cairo, Egypt — December 16-17, 2003