Summary

The recent food and energy crisis highlighted the paradox of high demand and resource shortages that represent the basis of an apparently modern, globalised society, but a society that is in many ways simply stuck in an old paradigm. We need strong global solutions and strategies, such as increasing the availability and use of alternative energy resources, investing in large-scale research and development, and implementing specific measures in fragile, underdeveloped areas. The food and energy crisis represents a wake-up call to action on all these fronts, for the long-term benefit of all society.