Scientists to Begin Testing Artificial Volcano to Curb Climate Change
Researchers in the U.K. will begin an experiment next month that, by imitating a volcanic eruption, could eventually lead to a climate-cooling method that would work by putting sun-reflective particles into the stratosphere.
Researchers in the U.K. will begin an experiment next month that, by imitating a volcanic eruption, could eventually lead to a climate-cooling method that would work by putting sun-reflective particles into the stratosphere.
The geoengineering experiment, which during its first phase of testing will shoot water into the air through a kilometer-long hose suspended in the air with a hydrogen balloon, was inspired by the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines in 1991. That volcano shot 20 million tons of sulfate particles into the atmosphere, ultimately cooling Earth by 0.5 degrees Celsius for 18 months.
But scientists believe it will be decades before they can safely implement such a cooling strategy, and even then, they warned, it should not be used as an excuse to avoid cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Rather, geoengineering should be considered a short-term emergency remedy. –BF
WAIT, BEFORE YOU GO…Scientific American:
The water tests are expected to be harmless, but several environmental groups have criticized the plan—and geoengineering in general. Last year, the United Nation’s Convention on Biological Diversity issued a statement forbidding geoengineering research that may impact biodiversity. The U.K. accepted that statement, but the SPICE [Stratospheric Particle Injection for Climate Engineering] experiment does not violate any international agreements due to its small scale, says Jason Blackstock, a physicist at Canada’s Center for International Governance Innovation.
Nevertheless, the Canada-based Action Group on Erosion, Technology and Concentration (ETC) is calling the tests internationally irresponsible. In a written statement, they called on the British government to shut down the project, adding: “This experiment is only phase one of a much bigger plan that could have devastating consequences, including large changes in weather patterns such as deadly droughts.”
If you're reading this, you probably already know that non-profit, independent journalism is under threat worldwide. Independent news sites are overshadowed by larger heavily funded mainstream media that inundate us with hype and noise that barely scratch the surface. We believe that our readers deserve to know the full story. Truthdig writers bravely dig beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that tells you what’s really happening and who’s rolling up their sleeves to do something about it.
Like you, we believe a well-informed public that doesn’t have blind faith in the status quo can help change the world. Your contribution of as little as $5 monthly or $35 annually will make you a groundbreaking member and lays the foundation of our work.
Environment
The extremes this year are sharper than anthropogenic global warming alone would be expected to cause.
Environment
Over the last 20 years, more than half of the planet's oceans experienced color change.
Environment
The way that the Petermann Glacier in Northwest Greenland is melting indicates that current models are too conservative.
Business & Economy
From the U.S. House to state governments, the GOP takes aim at pro-climate finance strategies.
Environment
A new research and monitoring program aims to conserve threatened but overlooked saline ecosystems.
Environment
Battered by climate change, Puerto Ricans are taking the fight to the polluters as they work to reinforce their island.
There are currently no responses to this article.
Be the first to respond.