Scientists have long explored the concept of manipulating the climate through geoengineering, especially in the rapidly warming Arctic region. Proposed methods include thickening sea ice, adding iron to the ocean, and releasing particles to reflect sunlight. However, a recent study published in the journal Frontiers in Science concludes that these ideas are not practical and could cause significant environmental harm.
The study, a collaborative effort following COP28 in Dubai, evaluated five advanced geoengineering proposals for the polar regions and found them to be unfeasible and potentially damaging. Co-author Martin Sommerkorn from WWF Global Arctic Program emphasized the need for a sustained, long-term commitment to addressing climate change, cautioning against quick fixes.
Lead author Helen Amanda Fricker from Scripps Institution of Oceanography highlighted the vast scale of ice sheets, noting the logistical challenges in implementing strategies like extracting basal water from glaciers. The research extensively analyzed various geoengineering methods, considering factors such as feasibility, effectiveness, cost, governance, and adverse effects.
While some argue for exploring geoengineering as a complement to decarbonization efforts, others, like co-author Julienne Stroeve from the University of Manitoba, caution about potential unintended consequences. Stroeve emphasized the interconnected nature of global climate systems and the risks associated with localized geoengineering solutions.
Astrophysics professor Steve Desch believes in the importance of exploring diverse approaches to combat climate change, including geoengineering. He acknowledges the necessity of decarbonization but advocates for considering alternative options to mitigate worsening conditions.
Despite differing views, the consensus among experts is that decarbonization should remain the primary focus. Greg Henry, a geography professor emeritus, expressed concerns about the uncertainties and risks associated with large-scale geoengineering projects, emphasizing the need for prioritizing sustainable solutions over costly and potentially hazardous interventions.
As discussions continue on the feasibility and implications of geoengineering, the emphasis remains on the urgent need for reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy sources to address the escalating climate crisis.