This is an idea to be tested, but when working with a complex system as the atmosphere there will be unintended consequences. A possible consequence could be more water in the atmosphere contributing to weird weather patterns. The current National Geographics has an article about extreme weather events from heavy rain lasting days that lead to local floods to stronger thunder storms and tornadoes.
Prudent actions should anticipate problems caused by the solution. A good example is importing cane toads to deal with local insects; the cane toads become a bigger problem than the insects. If making white clouds to combat global warming has a fast effect then it is possible to deal with the severe weather if that is only for a short time. If the solution takes more than a decade to show improvement then it may not be worth the risks from severe weather.
Discussion on:
Top
Rated
Rated
Unintended Consequences
Posted by sboverie
21st Aug
Just
In
In
If this makes sense
Posted by DS1Roger
22nd Aug
Show:
+3
Votes
Unintended Consequences
Posted by sboverie
21st Aug
+1
Vote
It might even make more sense...
...to subsidize intercontinental jet travel. More contrails would probably be more effective at a much higher altitude.
Posted by JohnMcGrew@...
21st Aug
0
Votes
Two problems need mention
One, this would do nothing to slow ocean acidification, perhaps the most under-recognized feedback that could produce increasing CO2 levels from the reduced algae growth that more acidic waters contribute to. Two, less sunlight for solar panels, agriculture, as a driver of global winds and other yet to be discovered environmental functions. The concept needs to be studied further since it might prove useful as a short-term way to blunt the effects of extreme heat waves someday, but we should not be deluded into thinking this kind of scheme in any way reduces the need to move to a carbon free energy system globally as quickly as possible.
Posted by John Hartshorn
21st Aug
0
Votes
If this makes sense
If this makes sense shooting water as snow over either pole would do better.
Consider how much power would need to be used to move enough water high enough to seriously effect the atmosphere. What this idea really needs is a tropical island with a tall mountain where the stack pumps the water up to the top. Then use the tidal changes to power it. Anyone know of an island that would volunteer?
The catamaran looks nice as an illustration but it's too top heavy. The slightest blow would flip it over.
Consider how much power would need to be used to move enough water high enough to seriously effect the atmosphere. What this idea really needs is a tropical island with a tall mountain where the stack pumps the water up to the top. Then use the tidal changes to power it. Anyone know of an island that would volunteer?
The catamaran looks nice as an illustration but it's too top heavy. The slightest blow would flip it over.
Posted by DS1Roger
22nd Aug