Is Geoengineering A Good Idea?
Summary
This episode explores geoengineering, the controversial idea of intentionally manipulating Earth’s climate to counteract global warming. Host Ben Bradford interviews scientists Kate Rickey and Alan Robock, who debate the feasibility and ethics of methods like stratospheric aerosol injection. They discuss potential risks, including ozone depletion, termination shock, and geopolitical conflict, while questioning whether humanity should rely on these untested technologies.
Topics discussed
Introduction: The controversial idea of geoengineering
Kate Rickey's entry into geoengineering research
Various geoengineering proposals: Sky vacuums and ocean fertilizers
Stratospheric aerosol injection: Mimicking volcanic eruptions
Alan Roback's 20 reasons why geoengineering is a bad idea
The 'Snowpiercer' scenario and termination shock risks
The moral hazard: Geoengineering vs. emissions reduction
Geopolitics: Who controls the global thermostat?
Private companies and the race to deploy geoengineering
Conclusion: The need for international rules and governance
Listen ad-free on Castria