The Rosenfeld Fund for Global Sustainable Development

Tanzanian night market: Sandals illuminated using traditional kerosene lamp [top] which costs $50/year in fuel versus 1-watt white LED solar lantern [bottom], providing about 100-times more light and costing $10-$25 once. Credit: Evan Mills

In June 2006, Dr. Arthur H. Rosenfeld received the Enrico Fermi Award, one of the United States’ oldest and most prestigious science and technology awards. The honor recognizes scientists of international stature for a lifetime of exceptional achievement in the development, use, control, or production of energy. As the significance of Dr. Rosenfeld’s contributions to the issue of global climate change becomes increasing evident, Dr. Rosenfeld has turned his attention to the opportunities presented by “dual benefit” technologies that address the energy needs of the poor in developing countries while protecting the environment

In recognition of Dr. Rosenfeld’s remarkable record of achievement and renewed commitment to helping develop the next generation of energy efficient, environmentally conscious technologies, the Blum Center at the University of California established the Rosenfeld Fund for Global Sustainable Development. The Rosenfeld Fund supports multidisciplinary projects that address the needs of the poor using technologies that minimize energy use and protect the environment.

Since its inception, the Rosenfeld Fund’s initiatives have demonstrated how stunningly simple technologies can be used to support development that is also environmentally beneficial. Early successes include rechargeable LED lighting devices in Kenya, and energy efficient cook stoves in Darfur.

Women return to a Darfur refugee camp from a 7 hour firewood trek. Each household needs 4 trips per week. Note the denuded landscape. Credit: A. Gadgil

Going forward, the Rosenfeld Fund is committed to developing, testing & disseminating low-cost technologies that emphasize energy efficiency while minimizing negative environmental impacts such as CO2 emissions. Operating within the Blum Center for Developing Economies at the University of California Berkeley, gifts to The Rosenfeld Fund go directly to real-world projects. Recipients of project funding are multidisciplinary teams of faculty & students, along with their implementing partners in developing countries. Teams are led by students & faculty from the University of California or affiliated institutions.