This issue of ABC Carbon Express comes to you from the National Energy Efficiency Conference 2013 which was officially opened this morning by Ms Grace Fu, Singapore’s Second Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, who is also Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office. She made it very clear in her opening remarks that cutting energy use – through energy efficiency – is a primary measure to avoid the worst impacts of a warmer world, which is inevitable. She drew attention to the latest IPCC report and confirmed Singapore’s commitment to reduce its emissions, through a variety of mitigation measures, but also by getting prepared for a higher temperature regime and rising sea levels. Adaptation is essential as worse is to come. Managing with less and being more efficient are essential. The conference was also a platform for global and local companies to showcase what they have achieved and are committed to. Recognition also for Energy Efficiency National Partnership award winners, which included Nestle, Asia Pacific Breweries, Eastman Chemicals and Global Foundries. The occasion was also a launch for my book Race for Sustainability – now the Minister has her copy! – and with all this in mind we concentrate our attention on energy efficiency in practically all the articles we offer in this issue. What we don’t have yet is the list of the 100 Global Sustain Ability Leaders for 2013. You will have to wait until the next issue this month. As well as more reports and case studies from this event and others which we are attending. – Ken Hickson