Global Engage

Since 1959, the UN has designated International Years to draw attention to major issues that are of global importance, and to encourage concerted international action to address them. The UN General Assembly declared 2012 the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All, rexognizing that affordable modern energy is essential to sustain development and meet the Millennium Development Goals for eliminating extreme poverty.

This year focuses on increasing access to energy, energy efficiency, and renewable energy. It calls on us all to inquire, act and reflect on energy issues at the local, national, regional and international levels

Access to clean, safe, affordable energy services can improve the lives of people around the world. Meeting the challenge will require careful analysis, national ingenuity and resolve, international cooperation and a global perspective.

In the IB Global Engage calendar, January is devoted to the issue: How should we power the world? There we suggest 3 key questions for reflection:

• How do our culture and values influence the creation of a sustainable society?
• What policies and strategies will lead us to modern, reliable, affordable and sustainable energy services in order to meet growing demands for energy?
• What is the best way to develop and disseminate sustainable energy technologies to reach developing nations and nations in transition?

Make it a point to find out more, and to include this globally significant idea in teaching and learning throughout the year. Because there will be a lot of information and ideas flowing around the workd, the topic will be a fruitful one for students to engage in exhibitions, personal projects and DP core activities.

More power to you!