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

Milestones
May, 2016, 2026
Bertrand Piccard receives title of Special Advisor of European Commissioner for Housing and Energy Dan Jørgensen
May, 15th 2025
Bertrand Piccard Promoted to Commander of the Legion of Honour by the President of the French Republic at the Élysée Palace

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.

May 13th, 2025
UN, DEUX, TROIS PICCARD AUTEUR : JEAN-YVES DUHOO Pioneers of the Sky and the Depths
February 7th, 2024
Climate Impulse Launch- One Flight, Non-stop and Zero Emissions

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”

2020 to 2024
Special Advisor to European Commission Vice-President Maroš Šefcovic
2016 to today
Initiator and Chairman of the Solar Impulse Foundation. Launch of the 1000 Solutions Challenge and Published book Changer d'Altitude
2015 to June 2023
United Nations Goodwill Ambassador for the Environmental Program UNEP
2003 to 2016
Initiator, Chairman and Pilot of the Solar Impulse project. First round-the-world solar flight
2000 to 2012
United Nations Goodwill Ambassador for the Population Fund UNFPA
1999 & 2000 to today
nitiator and President of the Winds of Hope Foundation and the NoNoma Federation
1994 to 1999
Initiator and Captain of the Breitling Orbiter project. First non-stop round-the-world balloon flight
1992
Winner of the first transatlantic balloon race Chrysler Challenge
1974 & 1985
Pioneer of hang-gliding and microlight flying in Europe; European hang-glider aerobatics champion
1996- 2006
Bertrand treated patients in psychotherapy at his private practice until 2006, before focusing on his activities as an explorer and lecturer.
1987- 1995
He completed a double specialization in psychiatry and psychotherapy for adults and children. Bertrand will be a senior registrar in a university department and will teach hypnosis during training courses for doctors and psychologists.

Contact

If you require further information or would like assistance organising interviews, the communication department will be delighted to help.

Daniela Diego Avatar

Daniela Diego

Project Manager Global Media Relation

press@bertrandpiccard.com

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