Attemps to slow down climate change by large-scale geo-engineering present "serious risks" and are unlikely to replace the need to cut greenhouse gas emissions, Australia`s chief scientist has warned.
In an overview of schemes proposed by scientists, researchers at the Office of the Chief Scientist say the main methods of planetary-scale engineering would confront big problems with technical feasibility, political co-operation and cost. But research should be pursued in the hope of developing last-ditch methods to slow climate change.
"Given the difficulty in implementing global action to reduce CO2 emissions from human activities and their continued growth, geo-engineering is one possible approach to combat global warming," it said.
"Geo-engineering would not moderate all the effects of rising emissions, and will introduce its own risks and uncertainties."
Humans already play a role in dictating the Earth`s climate by adding ...