A pioneering spirit and an influential voice for efficient solutions. One of the first, back in the 2000s, to look at ecology from the angle of profitability, Bertrand Piccard is considered an opinion leader on the themes of innovation and sustainability. President of the Solar Impulse Foundation, he promotes "qualitative economy" by demonstrating the economic potential of clean technologies.
A pioneering spirit in the service of clean technologies and efficiency A visionary explorer and trained psychiatrist, Bertrand Piccard embodies an original approach to ecology: convinced since the early 2000s that ecological transition can only succeed by ensuring economic profitability, he has made energy and technological efficiency his battle cry and promotes a qualitative economy that reconciles carbon-free energy, reduction of waste and increased profitability. His next challenge, Climate Impulse, embodies this vision: to complete the first non-stop, zero emissions flight around the world in a green hydrogen-powered airplane in 2029, demonstrating how clean technologies and efficiency can drive the ecological transition. Heir to a lineage of explorers and scientists who conquered the stratosphere and the abyss, Bertrand made history by achieving two major aeronautical f irsts – circumnavigating the globe non-stop in a balloon and, more recently, in a fuel-free solar airplane. Founder and President of the Solar Impulse Foundation, he has led his team to identify and certify more than 1,600 efficient solutions, proving that sustainability and profitability are not mutually exclusive. His voice is now heard by political and economic decision-makers, who recognise him as an opinion leader on innovation and energy transition. Drawing on this portfolio of efficient solutions ready for large-scale deployment, he encourages political and industrial decision-makers to take ambitious environmental action and modernise infrastructure, legislative frameworks and economic models. To overcome resistance to climate action, he proposes a new narrative demonstrating that by exploiting the incredible potential of efficiency, cleantech and renewable energies and avoiding the unsustainable waste of resources, it is possible to protect the environment while creating jobs and prosperity. A passionate communicator, Bertrand Piccard shares his experience and pioneering spirit at conferences around the world, in his books, and with the younger generations he strives to inspire. More than an explorer, he sees himself as a catalyst for the forces at play, revealing solutions and developing synergies where others see only contradictions – to build a more efficient, qualitative and sustainable society
At an official ceremony held on May 14 at the Élysée Palace, the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, promoted Swiss explorer and psychiatrist Bertrand Piccard to the rank of Commander of the Legion of Honour.
The problems are known. What is needed now, are solutions.To give hope again. The book explores how to get out of the current dilemma between degrowth leading to social chaos and the unbridled consumerism leading to ecological disaster. Far from the expenses and sacrifices feared by many, Bertrand Piccard, offers us an original, clear and uncompromising plea, in which he exposes the foundations of his third way, the "qualitative growth", which reconciles ecology and economy. Clear and and unifying, Bertrand Piccard's approach is equal to the enormity of the challenge facing the future of our planet. 10 Major Points from "Réaliste, Soyons logiques autant qu’écologiques". Decoupling growth from GDP – for a new Qualitative Growth The Green transition – the market opportunity of the century The Solutions exist – we just need to use them Efficiency – a world of no waste Federating actors – pulling on one rope Climate activists should call for solutions as much as denounce problems Law shapes reality – modern legislation is key Human nature – ally or enemy in the fight against climate change A clean future – how our lives could change Reversing paradigms – and achieving the “impossible”
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