I cannot believe that a science advisor to the POTUS (President of the United States) would seriously suggest that we study creating an artificial volcano that shoots pollution high into the atmosphere in order to combat global warming. But apparently he has. From the story:
The president’s new science adviser said Wednesday that global warming is so dire, the Obama administration is discussing radical technologies to cool Earth’s air. John Holdren told the Associated Press in his first interview since being confirmed last month that the idea of geoengineering the climate is being discussed. One such extreme option includes shooting pollution particles into the upper atmosphere to reflect the sun’s rays. Holdren said such an experimental measure would only be used as a last resort. “It’s got to be looked at,” he said. “We don’t have the luxury of taking any approach off the table.”This is what happens when ideological hysteria swamps critical thinking. Perhaps I am ignorant, but wouldn’t it take a tremendous amount of pollution to be shot into the upper atmosphere to materially impact the amount of sunlight reaching the earth? And how many artificial volcanoes would have to be set up—and at what cost? Hey, I know: Let’s also set up huge fans all around the world to blow the air around and let that cool the planet!
Good thing the scientists are back in control of public policy.
