CANCELLED: THINK Seminar - Climate Emergency: Should we Consider Geoengineering?

Discuss the topic and plan questions ahead of the big debate.

We find ourselves in a climate emergency. In the words of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, this is ‘code red for humanity’. Many worry that transitioning to renewable energy, decreased consumption and more sustainable living will not happen fast enough or be sufficient to stop the worst effects of climate change. With little time to act, some ask that geoengineering schemes be considered. As the ETC groups writes, “geoengineering can refer to a wide range of techniques, including: blasting sulphate particles into the stratosphere or 'whitening' clouds to reflect the sun’s rays; dumping iron particles in the oceans to nurture CO2 -absorbing plankton; firing silver iodide into clouds to produce rain or genetically engineering crops so their foliage can better reflect sunlight.” While advocates argue that such drastic actions are necessary, critics point not only to the risks of trying to manipulate complex systems that we do not fully comprehend, but also to the human rights implications and democratic challenges of allowing some countries to make choices that impacts on the whole Earth.   

How to join:

THINK seminars are only open to University of Essex students. 

Join us in person in LTB 5 or via Zoom (You will need to register your Zoom place).

THINK Seminars form part of the Big Essex Award so don’t forget to tap in!

Important information - this event is a COVID-secure event

Keeping Safe on Campus   

In line with Government and Public Health England guidance on the COVID-19 pandemic, the University has introduced procedures and guidance to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of our community on campus

University of Essex Staff and Students 

• Moodle training 
• Covid-age health assessment
• Staff agreement
• encouragement to have been vaccinated
• encouragement for a negative LFT on the day of the event - if not within previous 72 hours
• encouragement not to attend campus if positive, symptomatic or living with someone positive
• encouragement to wear face coverings when not actually eating or drinking

Any further questions please email events@essex.ac.uk