Energy Observer
An interview with Laurène Blottière, Director of Communications at the Energy Observer
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I have been working in communication and project management for nearly 15 years. After studying science and history of Art, I first joined a company focused on cultural patronage (art, fashion, design), then a Foundation dedicated to the dissemination of knowledge linking contemporary art, science and the environment. Today and for almost 3 years, I am the Head of communications at Energy Observer, a project that explores practical solutions whilst developing new technologies to accelerate ecological and energetical transition.
What led you to start the Energy Observer project?
In my previous position, I worked on many exhibition projects where sustainability issues were central to the artists' work. I wanted to go further in this direction when I discovered the Energy Observer project, the first vessel to sail around the world powered only by renewable energy and hydrogen, with no CO2, no fine particles and no noise. I was quite amazed by this boat of the future which develops, beyond the incredible technological aspect, awareness campaigns for the ecological transition with documentaries and very inspiring contents! I think that wonder is a first key and a way to initiate changes in behavior. And I wanted to be part it!
Tell us about your favorite moment working on the project? How did you feel?
There are several of them! When the vessel reached the Arctic Circle in Spitsbergen, the epicenter of climate change, it was a great moment for all the teams. She left St. Petersburg for a completely autonomous navigation in very cold latitudes, which really put the onboard technologies to the test. This shows that these technologies, which are composed of an intelligent energy mix - combining renewable energies and green hydrogen produced from the electrolysis of sea water - work everywhere! And that these energy solutions open the way to concrete applications at sea and on land. This expedition has given rise to incredible encounters and images with men and women who are committed to the planet.
What is your hope for Energy Observer?
The Energy Observer's world tour for more than 4 years now, has already accelerated many projects, from the deployment of more virtuous energy ecosystems, to the development of the hydrogen society. This is what the hydrogen plan led by France Relance shows, but which is also supported at the European level. Energy Observer is also supported by the French Ministry of Ecological Transition, which has made it a French ambassador for the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Energy Observer is also supported by Unesco, Irena and Ademe... I wish the project to be an even greater voice for change but also for concrete actions (as we have created a subsidiary in 2019 that develops clean energy solutions!) and to continue to inspire politicians, companies, citizens to move the lines. Because we need to change the trajectory as soon as possible.
Why is your mission important for European citizens?
Our mission is important because it allows us to raise the awareness of European citizens about the ecological and energy transition in a positive way. Energy is a central issue to address! We must explore and develop all possible solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect our ecosystems the ocean, and all the biodiversity on which we directly depend. Each citizen is a bearer of solutions! This is what we demonstrate with our web-series "Energy Observer Solutions": every woman, every man can, at his own scale, participate or be at the origin of positive initiatives!
All photographs are property of Energy Observer Productions.
