Nora Maccoby

The Energy Conversation Nora Maccoby

Energy is the common factor. If you stop to consider, every aspect of modern society is shaped by energy - from transportation to food to national security to environmental disaster. So, as we take on the massive problems we are faced with today, it is incumbent upon us to factor in this critical element. But, how do we do this? It begins, we believe, with conversation. Fortunately, the dialogue has already begun. The Energy Conversation, which met formally for the first time on March 29, 2006, brings together a diverse group of senior leaders, scientists, researchers, and academics from government and beyond. It provides a forum - beyond the confines of a single institution or specific field of study - in which to debate the world's problems. And, because participants come from such varied backgrounds, everyone is able to consider issues not just from one point of view but from many. Over the course of 31 conversations, we've explored biofuels and windmills; we've looked at IBM's policies and the economic impacts of climate change; we've discussed national security and nuclear power; and we've considered our oil addiction and Germany's commitment to renewable energy.