FORA.tv Environment Season 1 Episode 20 Geoengineering: Dare We Try To Engineer Earth's Climate?
- Not Rated
- February 4, 2011
In FORA.tv Environment season 1 episode 20 titled "Geoengineering: Dare We Try To Engineer Earth's Climate?" experts in the field of geoengineering explore the idea of manipulating Earth's climate to counteract the effects of climate change caused by human activity. The episode features a panel discussion with leading experts in the field including David Keith, a Harvard physicist who has conducted extensive research on geoengineering, and Clive Hamilton, an author and public intellectual who has studied the ethical implications of geoengineering.
The episode begins with a brief introduction about the idea of geoengineering and why some scientists and policymakers are considering it as a potential solution to global warming. The guests then discuss the two main categories of geoengineering: carbon dioxide removal and solar radiation management. Carbon dioxide removal involves developing technologies that can capture and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, while solar radiation management involves reflecting sunlight back into space to cool the planet.
The panelists explore the various technologies and methods that could be used for geoengineering, including ocean fertilization, bioenergy with carbon capture and storage, and stratospheric aerosol injection. They also discuss the potential risks and unintended consequences of geoengineering, such as disrupting global weather patterns, causing acid rain, and creating new geopolitical tensions.
The guests delve into the ethical implications of geoengineering, such as whether it would be morally justifiable to deliberately manipulate the planet's climate and how to balance the potential benefits of geoengineering with the potential risks. They also address concerns about how to govern and regulate geoengineering research and implementation to prevent it from being misused or causing harm.
Throughout the episode, the panelists offer their differing perspectives and insights on geoengineering, providing a nuanced and thought-provoking discussion of the topic. They discuss the various challenges and opportunities that come with trying to engineer the planet's climate and explore the potential risks and benefits of using geoengineering as a tool to combat climate change.
Overall, "Geoengineering: Dare We Try To Engineer Earth's Climate?" is a compelling and informative episode that offers a balanced and well-informed discussion of one of the most controversial and complex issues surrounding climate change. The guests provide a diverse range of perspectives and insights on the topic, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of the planet and the potential solutions to climate change.