Geoengineering Could Provide Boost in Climate Change Efforts

A controversial new science called geoengineering has entered the climate crisis arena.

Defined as 'the deliberate large-scale intervention in the Earth’s climate system in order to moderate global warming,' geoengineering will not be the hero riding to the rescue in the nick of time.

The two main fields of geoengineering study are Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) and Solar Radiation Management (SRM).

The Carbon Dioxide Removal techniques are literally aimed at removing the CO2 in our atmosphere resulting from greenhouse gasses. CO2 is widely accepted as the root of the climate crisis however the temperatures would decrease very slowly and it could take decades to have an impact.

Thus far none of the Carbon Dioxide removal techniques have been shown effective at an affordable cost and with acceptable side effects.

Solar Radiation Management projects seek to reflect a portion of the sun's rays back into space so less solar radiation is absorbed by the earth. These methods are projected to be affordable and would take just a few years to have an impact on climate temperature once deployed.

Some scientists maintain global warming is caused by sun spots not CO2. These scientists could find their answer in this method also.

The earth's eco system is sensitive and the reflection method could disrupt precipitation, weather systems, wind speeds and ocean current.

Uncertainties plaque this method as no way to predict the actual impact has been established.

Solar reflection would not reduce the acidity of our oceans which is causing widespread destruction of the coral reef systems. As the delicate reef eco systems are destroyed, numerous other species which depend on the reef systems are affected.

In a September 2009 report issued by The Royal Society, it was stated that since the Solar Radiation Management techniques “offer the only option for limiting or reducing global temperatures rapidly they should also be the subject of further scientific investigation to improve knowledge in the event that such interventions become urgent and necessary.”

The report also acknowledges that much more needs to be known about potential climate, environment and social impacts before permitting large-scale experiments or deployments.

Potential abuse of geoengineering for use in eco terrorism must be taken into consideration. A governing body would have to be established to protect all nations from such attacks.

The best option in lowering climate temperature according to The Royal Society is the immediate reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.