Energy is the motor of social and economic development for an increasing world population, which -- according to the United Nations -- is expected to double to reach 10 billion by 2050. World primary energy demand will increase by some 50 per cent between now and 2020, and fossil fuels will account for nearly 90 percent of that demand.

The IEA's objectives include improvement of the world energy supply and demand structure, more efficient use of energy, development of alternative energy sources to reduce dependence on any one source, assistance in the integration of environmental and energy policies and the promotion of co-operative relations between oil producing and oil consuming countries.  

The NEA's mission is to assist its member countries in maintaining and further developing, through international co-operation, the scientific, technological and legal bases required for the safe, environmentally friendly and economical use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.   

One of the key concerns of the 21st century is the threat posed by climate change. The OECD is helping member countries address this threat through the assessment of appropriate energy, sustainable transport and other sector policies, that also integrate local and social objectives. The OECD is also examining the interface of trade policies and environmental policies.

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