Name: Should we create a solar shade to cool the earth?
Uploaded: 2018-04-05T14:48:27Z
Duration: 6 min 55 s
Description: In this perspective-shifting talk, Danny Hillis prompts us to approach global issues like climate change with creative scientific solutions. Taking a stand for solar geoengineering, he looks at controversial solutions with open-minded curiosity.

In this perspective-shifting talk, Danny Hillis prompts us to approach global issues like climate change with creative scientific solutions. Taking a stand for solar geoengineering, he looks at controversial solutions with open-minded curiosity.

Should we create a solar shade to cool the earth?

Cooling the planet could be as simple as reflecting more sunlight back into space, using methods like dispersing chalk dust in the stratosphere. Remarkably, just 10 teragrams of chalk per year—about a handful in every Olympic pool—could offset global temperature increases. While the concept is controversial and many hesitate to research it, the reality is humans already alter the atmosphere, often unintentionally. Exploring these options helps balance creativity with caution as we face climate change.

Solar Geoengineering Challenges Our Fears And Expands Climate Solutions

science

technology

future

Anthropocene

curiosity

climate change

social change

society

TED Stage Talk

Danny Hillis: Should we create a solar shade to cool the earth?