Geoengineering: The Gamble

Geoengineering, which aims to reflect more sunlight back into space to cool Earth, poses risks and uncertainties. However, climate economist Gernot Wagner argues that it may become necessary due to the difficulty of cutting carbon emissions in time. He provides a balanced view of the potential benefits and risks, including the "moral hazard" of undermining the push for carbon emissions reduction. Wagner explores scenarios of a geoengineered future and highlights the need for global cooperation and guidance to ensure its research is conducted in a productive and responsible manner.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 208 pages
\n Publication date: 24 September 2021
\n Publisher: Polity Press
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Stabilizing the world's climates requires a significant reduction in carbon dioxide pollution, with no alternative approach. However, achieving this goal within the given timeframe or even if carbon emissions are reduced to zero tomorrow may not be sufficient. Enter solar geoengineering, a concept that aims to cool Earth by reflecting more sunlight back into space. While the primary mechanism involves shooting particles into the upper atmosphere, it raises concerns about increased pollution. Recognizing the risks, uncertainties, and unknowables associated with solar geoengineering is crucial.

In his book "Geoengineering: The Gamble," climate economist Gernot Wagner offers a balanced perspective on the potential benefits and all-too-real risks, particularly the "moral hazard" that researching or discussing solar geoengineering could undermine the efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Despite these risks, Wagner argues that solar geoengineering may become a reality in the near future. He explores scenarios of a geoengineered future, providing an inside-view of the ongoing research and the actions needed to steer it in a productive direction.

Wagner's insights as the founding executive director of Harvard's Solar Geoengineering Research Program are invaluable in understanding the complexities and challenges of this field. His book offers a comprehensive exploration of the potential benefits and risks of solar geoengineering, making it an essential read for policymakers, scientists, and anyone interested in addressing climate change. As we navigate the uncertain path toward a sustainable future, understanding the potential of solar geoengineering is crucial in developing effective strategies and policies.

\n Weight: 280g\n
Dimension: 137 x 217 x 19 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781509543069\n \n