Standardization - An Important Tool for Achieving Global Cooperation Towards Energy Independence

The global demand for energy would grow considerably in the coming years. This trend is; not compatible with the depleting and unevenly distributed world reserves of fossil fuels. Tied to the growing demand for energy are a host of environmental challenges. Access to cheap energy is essential to the functioning of modern economics. Energy efficiency is; recognized as key for achieving sustainable development in both industrialized and de-^ veloping countries. In fact, energy independence is at present seen as a global issue. To meet the dual challenges of energy and environmental stewardship global cooperation; is required. Globalization has various aspects that affect the world in several ways. Stand-; ardization and standards play a vital role in this globally important sector in the applica-; tion of increased number of standards arrived at through international cooperation. Thisi paper aims to describe the initiatives taken by the National Standards Body world over| and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for achieving global coop-i eration towards energy independence.