Problem
Hazardous geo-engineering
Other Names:
Negligent disregard for the consequences of geoshpere modificationUnconstrained modification of earth systems
Nature:
Large-scale modifications to the earth's atmosphere, oceans and lithosphere have been proposed as solutions to various environmental problems or constraints. Even where apparently feasible and reasonable, such measures involve uncertainties and potential side-effects which could threaten the stability of entire regions of the planet.
Incidence:
A proposal to offset the warming effect due to greenhouse gases is to inject tons of sulphuric acid into the stratosphere to reflect radiant energy; others would create massive wetland areas of micro-algae to absorb excess carbon dioxide, or inject it deep into the oceans. Reconstruction of an entire river system was proposed in Russia to divert waters inland for irrigation rather than allow them to flow to the Arctic Ocean.
Broader Problems:
Risk of ecoaccidents Narrower Problems:
High risk technologiesWaste disposal in deep wellsDestructive techniques for weather modificationEnvironmentally destructive redirection of water flows Related Problems:
Inconsistent risk evaluationHazardous locations for nuclear power plants Aggravates:
Topological disasterGeomagnetic disastersEnvironmental degradation due to creation of damsMisappropriation of resources for high cost civil engineering projects Strategies:
Strengthening role of geosciences in developmentConstraining modification of earth systemsModifying earth systemsProtecting against hazardous geo-engineeringUndertaking geo-engineering Values:
HazardUnconstrained Subject(s):
→ SystemsEarth → Earth
Geology → Geology
Societal Problems → Hazards
Societal Problems → Irresponsibility
Technology → Engineering
Related UN Sustainable Development Goals:
Problem Type:
F: Fuzzy exceptional problems Date of last update
15.10.2020 – 17:51 CEST