When one thinks of renewable energy and the growing movement to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, the US military is not, perhaps, the first thing that comes to mind. In reality, however, the military is tied inextricably to the renewable energy movement – oil is its lifeblood and this dependence is a great strategic vulnerability. This is the perspective the 2015 documentary The Burden seeks to convey – demonstrating to its audience that renewable energy isn’t just about the environment, but about national security, too. For more on the film and for showing details for the Boston area, read on!

Reliance upon oil, The Burden asserts, puts the US military at a significant disadvantage on a variety of levels. Not only is it expensive and often dangerous to secure and protect oil in key supply regions like the Middle East, but it also leaves the military vulnerable to oil price shocks. To complicate matters further, oil money often ends up in the hands of the very people the military is fighting. These are but a few of the arguments at the core of The Burden.

Ultimately The Burden seeks to be more than just a film – it strives to be the centerpiece of a movement that strengthens our energy security and helps push the US to be a leader in the 21st century global clean energy economy. While Congress has been reluctant to fully back the clean energy movement, director Roger Sorkin has said he hopes his film will give cover and support to legislative voices seeking comprehensive policies that will strengthen US security interests and ensure US leadership in the push for a clean energy future for the entire world.

If this documentary and the #LiftTheBurden campaign are of interest to you, and you happen to be located in the Boston area, you’re in luck! There will be a private screening of The Burden on Wednesday, February 3rd from 12 pm to 2 pm at MIT. Please check out The Burden’s website here for more information on the film and showings across the country.