A new study by the University of Exeter warns that polar geoengineering projects could cause severe environmental damage with global consequences, questioning their viability.

About Polar Geoengineering

• Definition: Polar geoengineering refers to deliberate, large-scale interventions in the Earth’s polar regions aimed at slowing global warming or protecting ice sheets by modifying environmental processes.

Different Polar Geoengineering Techniques and their Limitations

Way Forward

• Climate-Resilient Development: Focus on decarbonisation, sustainable urban planning, and integrating climate adaptation into development strategies.
• Strengthen Protected Areas: Maintain ecosystems while respecting local communities and traditional knowledge to enhance long-term resilience.
• Reduce Fossil Fuel Reliance: Accelerate renewable energy adoption, modernise grids, address supply chain bottlenecks for critical minerals, and ensure equitable global energy transition.
  

Conclusion

Lowering carbon emissions remains the most effective solution. Every tonne of emissions avoided today reduces future shocks, improves air quality, and provides stability that geoengineering alone cannot guarantee.

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