This article discusses the energy dissipation in earthquakes, focusing on the challenges of defining and measuring this process across various scales. It highlights the importance of distinguishing between energy dissipation near the rupture tip (tip processes) and far behind the rupture tip (tail processes). The authors review the theoretical framework of Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM) and its application to earthquake physics, noting that while LEFM provides a useful model for laboratory experiments, it may not fully capture the complexity of natural faults. They emphasize the need for improved understanding of tip-and-tail processes and the role of non-localized dissipation in earthquake mechanics. The article also explores the variability in energy dissipation estimates from labquakes, tectonic earthquakes, and numerical models, suggesting that this variability may result from comparing localized and non-localized dissipation. Finally, it calls for a synergistic approach combining field observations, laboratory experiments, and numerical simulations to develop a consistent model for earthquake physics.This article discusses the energy dissipation in earthquakes, focusing on the challenges of defining and measuring this process across various scales. It highlights the importance of distinguishing between energy dissipation near the rupture tip (tip processes) and far behind the rupture tip (tail processes). The authors review the theoretical framework of Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM) and its application to earthquake physics, noting that while LEFM provides a useful model for laboratory experiments, it may not fully capture the complexity of natural faults. They emphasize the need for improved understanding of tip-and-tail processes and the role of non-localized dissipation in earthquake mechanics. The article also explores the variability in energy dissipation estimates from labquakes, tectonic earthquakes, and numerical models, suggesting that this variability may result from comparing localized and non-localized dissipation. Finally, it calls for a synergistic approach combining field observations, laboratory experiments, and numerical simulations to develop a consistent model for earthquake physics.