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Ecosystem impacts of geoengineering: a review for developing a science plan
Lynn M Russell1, Philip J Rasch, Georgina M Mace
1Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0221, USA. lmrussell@ucsd.edu
Ambio
|March 21, 2012
Summary
Geoengineering, including carbon dioxide removal (CDR) and solar radiation management (SRM), may reduce climate change impacts on ecosystems. However, risks like SRM cessation and CDR interference necessitate further research.
Area of Science:
- Earth and Environmental Sciences
- Climate Science
- Ecosystem Ecology
Background:
- Climate change significantly impacts ecosystem structure and function.
- Geoengineering proposes methods to counteract climate change.
- Two main approaches are Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) and Solar Radiation Management (SRM).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the potential impacts of geoengineering on ecosystems.
- To identify risks and uncertainties associated with CDR and SRM.
- To emphasize the need for cautious research into Earth system perturbations.
Main Methods:
- Review of current research on geoengineering effects.
- Analysis of potential ecosystem responses to CDR and SRM.
- Assessment of risks related to geoengineering implementation and cessation.
Main Results:
- SRM and CDR may mitigate climate change effects on ecosystems by stabilizing temperature and precipitation.
- Sudden termination of SRM could worsen climate impacts on ecosystems.
- Some CDR methods may disrupt oceanic and terrestrial ecosystem processes.
Conclusions:
- Geoengineering presents potential benefits for climate change mitigation but carries significant risks.
- The complex interactions between geoengineering and Earth systems require comprehensive and cautious investigation.
- Further research is crucial to understand and manage the uncertainties of geoengineering.
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