Since the global oil crisis of 1973, France has been committed to finding clean, stable forms of energy. The country ranks tenth on the 2008 Environmental Performance Index (EPI), in no small part due to its continued smart energy practices.

Renewable Energy

Currently, one of France’s environmental goals is to increase its dependence on renewable energy by at least 20 percent by 2020. By that point, renewable energy would account for more than a quarter of the country’s energy consumption.

Some of the challenges France faces with this plan include the need for greater wind and solar power initiatives. The nation trails behind its neighbors Spain and Germany in wind power, though quick strides are being made.  Already ecology minister Jean-Louis Borloo has guaranteed a budget of 1.5 Billion euros for a new French solar power program.

Tax Incentives

One of the driving forces behind France’s determined push to better energy is the tax incentives for farmers and home owners to use carbon-free fuels. Owners of houses built before 1990 can apply for a reduced mortgage rate limited to 300 euros per square mile of their property.

Individuals who take steps toward conserving heat through insulation, the use of wood-burning stoves, and so on in their homes are eligible for a tax credit. This program has been in place since 2006.

Nuclear Power

France’s continued reliance on nuclear energy is a subject of political and environmental controversy outside of its borders, but French citizens are generally happy with the program, even when power plants are installed beneath their towns. Its primary benefit is energy independence: with virtually no stake in foreign oil, France has remained relatively stable in the present economic downturn.

Detractors of the program cite safety concerns. Kurt Zenz House finds it troubling that France produces what he considers the equivalent of “10 nuclear bombs per week,” a potentially dangerous and attractive prospect for anyone interested in causing mass destruction. Others warn of pollution and environmental waste, as well as the cost of raw materials.

Sustainable Businesses

Ethicity is an independent consulting firm that specializes in sustainable development strategies. The group helps to market green products and raise money for civil building projects. If you speak French, their blog is a great resource for environmental news and opinion in France.

Isolation Ecologique is an online provider of ecological home building materials, like cellulose, hemp, and environmentally friendly paint. Their headquarters are located in Saint-Ouen.

Etyk’moi is a fashion store that sells clothing primarily made from organic cotton and denim. Although their materials and practices could lead to comparisons to a U.S. counterpart, American Apparel, Etyk’moi’s style is all its own. Their boutiques are located in Lyon and online.

Marcel Green is a news resource and guidebook for those interested in going green. In many ways, it’s much like the French equivalent of this site!

Other Sustainability Measures

• Air pollution in France as a whole is at an all-time low, but carbon emissions from vehicles and residences are rising.
• The French government plans to fund the production of carbon-free cars over the next four years.
• France has hosted summits on the environment and recently, the world’s oceans.

Conclusion

Through simple measures and an independent approach, France has been able to stay one of the world’s leading examples in energy efficiency. Although there are concerns about the safety of nuclear power, it shows no signs of stopping or slowing. Time will tell whether France will remain energy-secure.

By Matt Lurie