Until recently geoengineering has been largely taboo. Many activists fear that geoengineering will provide policymakers an excuse not to cut carbon emissions. But if you believe, like Al Gore does, that we only have a decade to act before we do irreversible damage to our environment, then it seems irresponsible not to pursue geoengineering.
Due to the physical chemistry of carbon in the atmosphere and the socioeconomic challenges of retooling our energy systems, greenhouse gas emissions can't be cut fast and far enough to make a difference. Geoengineering is a quick fix compared to either emissions restrictions or bringing zero emission nuclear power plants online. It harnesses American traditions of innovation, creativity, and our "can do" spirit.
The Chinese are using geoengineering to seed clouds to relieve severe droughts and water shortages. Chinese officials are considering a similar approach to cool daytime temperature and reduce demand for electricity during the 2010 Olympic games.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Geoengineering
Changing the world's climate deliberately. Geoengineering is coming, sooner or later. [Link]
1 comment:
Virgin Airlines CEO, Richard Branson, offered a $25,000,000 prize for a solution to global warming, but he screwed up: he limited it to ways to reduce CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere.
The solution is simple: genetically engineered white dandelions. During the summer months these would blanket large areas of the land and increase the surface albedo, reflecting sunlight and cooling the planet.
It's my idea, but I don't qualify for the Branson prize.
Post a Comment