Associating climate and energy issues is logical, given the connection between climate change and increased greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel combustion. Carbon energy (oil, gas, coal) is essential to power generation, transport and industry. By the weight of its importance in the global economy, carbon energy is at the centre of our current economic model. This model, however, is being called into question as resources become more scarce, demographic patterns shift and the climate changes.

An in-depth expertise

By studying these two issues together, IRIS’ Climate, Energy, Security Programme is at the intersection of geopolitical movements:

> Climate change geopolitics, which look primarily at the effects of the physical transformations taking place as a result of climate change (higher temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, rising sea levels, increased incidence of extreme weather phenomena, melting ice caps), but also at the impact of adaptation and mitigation policies. Climate change geopolitics also consider the relationship dynamics among parties to international negotiations, as well as the potential security implications of climate change (migration, resource-based conflict) and of the policies that may be put in place to address these possible outcomes (geoengineering, expropriation of land).

> Energy geopolitics, which study public- and private-sector actors in energy and related industries (exploration, production, transport, refining, distribution) and the relationships and power dynamics among them in terms of competition, market control, valuation and protecting market share. From the American energy revolution to the LNG boom and the energy transition, understanding the major changes taking place in today’s global energy scene requires consideration of an incredibly wide range of factors, including developments in international stock markets, the science of resource exploration, new technologies and political decision-making.

Internationally renowned expertise

Researchers from the Climate, Energy, Security Programme are commissioned to prepare studies, research and consultancy reports for public agencies, such as the French ministries for defence and for foreign affairs, and for private-sector clients.

IRIS is recognised within France and internationally for its work. It offers a range of services and expertise that are suited to short-, medium- and long-term needs and strategies to help companies understand this complex environment and to grow their business internationally.