Geoengineering

Presenter- Rebecca Buie

Expected Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course a fully engaged student should be able to

1. define geoengineering?
- the deliberate, large scale manipulation of the environment by human actions to reduce global temperatures or greenhouse gases within the atmosphere.
2. By what method does cloud- seeding bring about a reduction in global temperatures?
- Cloud- seeding adds more shiny clouds to the atmosphere which reflect a greater proportion of sun rays.
3. From what natural phenomenon did scientists get the idea for stratospheric sulfate aerosols?
-From volcanoes, especially Mt. Pinatubo.
4. Name two mechanisms that propose a method for delivering sulfur aerosols to the stratosphere.
-Stratoshield and extending smoke stacks
5. Name two risks associated with geoengineering.
-weaponization and the potential for rapid warming
6. In what situation is geoengineering supposed to be implemented?
-As an emergency back-up plan
7. True or False: Will implementing sulfate aerosols lower the amount of carbon dioxide within the atmosphere?
-False: it will only decrease the amount of sunlight the Earth receives, thus only reducing global temperatures.
8. How are sun shades supposed to reduce global temperatures?
-By slightly reflecting some of the sun’s rays away from the earth.

Powerpoint Presentation

http://www.slideshare.net/secret/eZMIzQxdCDN9VA