Geo-Engineering: For or Against?

Having written on the topic of Geo-Engineering for the past few months, I feel that I have developed my understanding of many of the issues surrounding this topic. I started this blog being heavily sceptical of all forms of geo-engineering; since then I have warmed to certain forms.

Personally, I think that solar geo-engineering methods are far too risky; they have many more downsides than upsides. Forms of geo-engineering that involve carbon dioxide removal is where my greatest support lies. These methods aim to reduce the cause of anthropogenic climate change and despite working slowly, have fewer risks and can operate alongside the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Determining whether to use geo-engineering depends on a form of cost-benefit analysis bringing together a variety of factors. Use of geo-engineering involves questions over finances, environmental impacts, political and military motives, feasibility, time scale and unexpected consequences. Only by assessing the multitude of factors can it be possible to determine if any of the geo-engineering techniques are suitable.

I am more positive about geo-engineering than when I started this blog but further research into the impacts of different methods is desperately needed as there is currently insufficient knowledge to make a clear and informed decision.