Researchers used computer models to see what would have happened had scientists caused marine cloud brightening in the face of strong past El Niños

Manipulating Earth’s weather to fix problems might seem like an idea straight out of science fiction and, indeed, could have unintended consequences.

Nevertheless, the authors of a study published yesterday in Science Advances argue that a particular type of geoengineering called marine cloud brightening should be taken seriously in the face of a recurring climate phenomenon called “El Niño.” The approach would be controversial, but computer models indicate its potential to mitigate El Niño’s destructive effects, according to the study.

  • DominusOfMegadeus@sh.itjust.works
    2·
    1 month ago

    Invent the goddamn technology. It’s ‘technically feasible.’ We’re actively working to make this thing compoundingly, exponentially worse every day, and doing nothing to stop it, so let’s give it a fucking try here, team. The odds seem to be in our favor on this one.

    • Wren@lemmy.todayOPMEnglish
      5·
      1 month ago

      Because:

      In a separate interview with CNN, David Keith, a geophysicist at the University of Chicago, said that while the study’s proof-of-concept is technically possible, “the technology simply doesn’t exist.”

    • mindbleach@sh.itjust.works
      2·
      1 month ago

      One, assholes in charge say nuh-uh it’s not hotter shut up nerd.

      Two, randos screech about the potential consequences! of geoengineering as if we’re not already doing it with a bazillion tons of CO2 for some fucking grim consequences right about now.

      Meanwhile we are in fact just talking about making more clouds. A process we can presumably start and stop at our discretion.