Engineering and Governing the Climate: Ethical and Political Issues

Geoengineering is increasingly seen as the key to future climate policies, but societies and governments have failed to curb greenhouse gas emissions. This book introduces readers to the concepts and methods of climate engineering, including technologies, risks, and political and ethical issues. It discusses the arguments for and against altering the climate on purpose, the uncertainties of geoengineering technologies, international coordination, and the duties towards future generations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 02 April 2024
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Geoengineering is emerging as a crucial component of future climate policies, as societies and governments worldwide have struggled to effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the severe consequences of climate change. This comprehensive book provides an introduction to the concepts and methods of climate engineering, exploring the technologies, risks, and ethical considerations involved. It addresses key topics such as the arguments for and against intentionally altering the climate, the uncertainties surrounding geoengineering technologies, the need for international coordination in engineering projects, and the responsibilities towards future generations.

Landes delves into global cases, including reforestation efforts, melting ice in Arctic regions, forest fires in Brazil, California, Australia, and Europe, and coral reef destruction in our oceans. The book offers distinctive features such as:

• Placing climate engineering within the broader context of the Anthropocene
• Developing an evaluative framework for assessing climate engineering methods from three perspectives: feasibility, permissibility, and preferability
• Providing a taxonomy of different climate engineering methods, including carbon dioxide removal and solar radiation management
• Conducting a structured and critical review of the justifications for and opposition to climate engineering R&D and deployment

Engineering and Governing the Climate: Ethical and Political Issues is a vital resource for professionals working in environmental studies, climate policy, and building a sustainable future. It sheds light on the potential solutions and challenges associated with geoengineering, offering insights into the ethical and political dimensions of climate change mitigation.

Weight: 540g
Dimension: 236 x 158 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538145609