The urgency of addressing global warming has intensified as temperatures continue to rise, with the world experiencing an important increase of approximately 1.45 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The 2015 Paris Agreement aimed to limit this rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius, yet current trajectories suggest that emissions reductions will fall drastically short, necessitating innovative solutions. Among these, geoengineering has emerged as a controversial yet potentially viable option, with recent studies exploring the use of diamond dust in the atmosphere as a means to reflect solar radiation and cool the planet.
About Geoengineering
Geoengineering encompasses large-scale interventions designed to deliberately alter the Earth’s climate system. This can be broadly categorised into two main approaches: Solar Radiation Management (SRM) and Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR). SRM aims to reflect sunlight away from Earth, while CDR focuses on removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Although these technologies promise rapid results, they also raise ethical and environmental concerns.
Solar Radiation Management (SRM)
SRM techniques propose various methods to reflect solar radiation, including the deployment of materials like sulphur dioxide, calcium carbonate, and, more recently, diamond dust. The latter has shown promise in studies indicating its superior effectiveness in producing cooling effects. The concept is inspired by natural phenomena, such as volcanic eruptions, which release particles that reflect sunlight and temporarily lower global temperatures. For instance, the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 is estimated to have reduced temperatures by 0.5 degrees Celsius due to the sulphate particles released into the atmosphere.
Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR)
CDR technologies aim to extract carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it, thereby mitigating the greenhouse effect. Methods include Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS), where CO2 is captured at its source and stored underground, and Direct Air Capture (DAC), which uses large machines to filter CO2 directly from the air. While CCS is currently the most widely implemented method, DAC holds potential for more long-term impact. However, both methods face challenges, including high costs and the need for suitable geological formations for storage.
Challenges and Concerns
Despite the theoretical potential of geoengineering, hurdles remain. Implementing SRM on a large scale could disrupt weather patterns, impact agriculture, and create unforeseen ecological consequences. Ethical considerations also arise, as manipulating natural processes might adversely affect biodiversity and regional climates. Furthermore, reliance on geoengineering technologies could detract from essential efforts to reduce emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.
Technological and Economic Implications
The development of geoengineering technologies requires substantial investment and research. For instance, the proposal to spray millions of tonnes of diamonds into the atmosphere annually could entail exorbitant costs and logistical challenges. Studies suggest that relying heavily on CCS could cost the global economy an additional US$ 30 trillion compared to a strategy focused on renewable energy and energy efficiency. Thus, while geoengineering may provide temporary relief, it is not a substitute for comprehensive climate action.
Future Prospects
As the impacts of climate change become increasingly apparent, the exploration of geoengineering solutions is likely to continue. However, it is essential to approach these technologies with caution, ensuring that they complement rather than replace traditional mitigation efforts. The debate surrounding geoengineering reflects a broader struggle to balance technological innovation with environmental stewardship and ethical responsibility.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the implications of geoengineering as a solution to climate change.
- Evaluate the potential risks and benefits of Solar Radiation Management techniques.
- Analyse the role of Carbon Dioxide Removal technologies in achieving climate targets.
- Examine the ethical concerns associated with geoengineering interventions.
- Assess the economic challenges related to the implementation of geoengineering solutions.
