Geo-engineering is when we use our knowledge of our world to deliberately make changes to create an effect. It is engineering on a geographic scale. But it is controversial. Some scientists are worried that we don’t understand enough about our planet to be able to predict all the effects, even bad ones. For example, we know that reducing the sunlight getting to the ground after a mega volcano can reduce the temperature of the earth. But spraying dust in our upper atmosphere to mimic a volcano is not risk free. What would happen to global weather patterns? How would it affect the wildlife and forests? How would it affect the crops that are grown? And vulnerable communities?
Many people suggest it is better to do local engineering schemes that help with Climate Adaptation instead. These are things that help local communities cope with the effects of climate change.
Before a geo-engineering scheme goes ahead there would have to be a global consensus. That means we would need all our leaders to agree that it is in the best interests of our planet, our common home.
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