Nanotechnology Now - News Story: "Stopping Climate Change (or not)"

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October 6th, 2007

Abstract:
Am I ready, then, to jump on the climate change can't be stopped bandwagon? I'm not, for several important reasons:

* First, we don't really know what effect political solutions that focus on reduction of carbon emissions might have. Although it seems unlikely, it is possible that a rapid and comprehensive switch away from fossil fuels could make a big difference.

* Second, as Brian Wang points out, even if such changes don't have an appreciable effect on climate change, they would have other big benefits, including reduction of deaths from pollution, from mining, and from war.

* Third, we also don't know whether or not ideas like mirrors in space to deflect sunlight can be of help. Further research into any such proposals that seem feasible should be encouraged.

* Fourth, we should not adopt any position that would further the aims of the industrial, commercial, and political forces (see monstrous hybrid) aligned against taking action. That can only make the problem worse.

* Fifth, not often will an issue arise that galvanizes a global population to call for action with only long-term benefits. This is a time to push for huge changes that will have lasting effects. It's not a time to encourage complacency or resignation.

* Sixth, since it appears that molecular manufacturing may be the only technology powerful enough to have a significant impact in ameliorating the effects of climate change, and since there are so many other great benefits to be gained through the development of molecular manufacturing, then we should strongly support research in that direction.

Source:
ieet.org

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