Energy efficiency is not a choice, but it is a necessity

An event titled “Energy Efficiency and Sustainability” was organized by Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services (VSHS). Assoc. Prof. Feride Kulalı Özdek, Head of the Nuclear Technology and Radiation Safety Program at Üsküdar University VSHS, attended the event as a guest speaker. Addressing the individual, social, and ethical dimensions of energy efficiency, Özdek emphasized that energy efficiency is not merely a technical issue but a field of responsibility toward future generations. She also stated that energy efficiency is not a choice, but a necessity.

The online event was attended by VSHS Director Asst. Prof. Ömer Faruk Karasakal and academic staff.

Energy efficiency is not a choice, it is a necessity

Stating that energy efficiency has become critically important in all areas today, Assoc. Prof. Feride Kulalı Özdek said, “Energy is one of the fundamental building blocks of modern life, but how we use energy directly affects the future of the planet and all living beings. Energy demand is rapidly increasing worldwide. Our resources are not unlimited, and this situation transforms energy efficiency from a choice into a necessity. Today, energy efficiency is not only a technical issue; it is directly related to social welfare, economic sustainability, and environmental balance.”

An area of ethical responsibility

Drawing attention to the importance of renewable energy sources, Assoc. Prof. Feride Kulalı Özdek stated that the environmental impacts of these sources should not be ignored. She said, “Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal have much lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels. However, these sources also involve energy use and the utilization of natural areas during production, installation, and operation processes. While turning to renewable energy, we cannot overlook the principles of planning and efficiency. When we use energy less and more efficiently, we not only reduce our own carbon footprint but also protect the habitats of other living beings that share this planet with us. Therefore, energy efficiency is part of the ethical responsibility that humans bear toward nature and other living beings.”

The program concluded with expressions of thanks from the participants.