An Analysis of Climate Change and the Possible Solutions

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Introduction Since the 1980s, climate change has transformed from a scientific discovery to being the most prevalent issue within the arena of political ecology. The world today has yet to fulfil the goal of emission reduction to a level that can keep global warming below the threshold of two degrees Celsius. Amidst various approaches used to cure the pressing climate change problems, the IPCC publication of Climate Change 2013: The Physical Science Basis Report suggested that the use of geoengineering technologies could be a possible solution (IPCC, 2013). Serious political and moral issues have arisen in consideration of these large–scale geoengineering projects. Proponents of this ‘technological fix’ believe priority should be placed on preventing the catastrophic climate change effects by any means necessary. Opponents argue for nurturing a more humble connection with nature and taking responsibility for past emissions of humanity. In light of these emerging debates, this essay does not intend to either promote or dishonour geoengineering as a solution to climate change. Rather, this essay aims to help its audience to understand the contested debates associated with geoengineering while hoping to provide a more balanced insight into this discourse. The first section of the essay will give a brief introduction to the current climate change issues. This will be followed by an overview of the most prominent geoengineering proposals to date in the second section. The third section will look into some of the moral questions associated with geoengineering. The fourth section will explore the economics, politics and governance of geoengineering. In conclusion, a recommendation will be provided for building the trust needed among ... ... middle of paper ... ...University Press. Morrow, David R., Robert E. Kopp, and Michael Oppenheimer. 2013. “Political Legitimacy in Decisions about Experiments in Solar Radiation Management.” In Climate Change Geoengineering. Cambridge University Press. Preston, Christopher J. 2012. “Beyond the End of Nature: SRM and Two Tales of Artificity for the Anthropocene.” Ethics, Policy & Environment 15 (2): 188–201. doi:10.1080/21550085.2012.685571. SRMGI. 2014. “SRMGI | Solar Radiation Management Governance Initiative.” Accessed March 12. http://www.srmgi.org/. Urpelainen, Johannes. 2012. “Geoengineering and Global Warming: A Strategic Perspective.” International Environmental Agreements: Politics, Law & Economics 12 (4): 375–89. Victor, D., Morgan, G., Apt, J., Steinbruner, J., & Ricke, K. (2009). The Geoengineering Option: A Last Resort Against Global Warming? Foreign Affairs, 88(2), 64-76.

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