348: Thomas Kostigen | Hacking Planet Earth

Defining Geoengineering

Geoengineering involves the deliberate large-scale manipulation of environmental processes to counteract climate change. Thomas Kostigen explains that we've already been engaging in small-scale geoengineering through activities like agriculture and irrigation 1. He believes that advanced technologies can help us undo the damage caused by pollution and environmental degradation 1. Jordan Harbinger highlights some innovative ideas, such as lasers to create rainfall and artificial trees to absorb carbon 2.

Geoengineering is a way for us to try and undo a lot of the damage that's been done by pollution and environmental degradation.

--- Thomas Kostigen

These technologies, while seemingly science fiction, could significantly impact our planet's future.

   

Historical Practices

Historically, geoengineering practices have included significant changes like the development of the automobile and the internet. Thomas Kostigen argues that these examples show our capability to retool the world 3. He also addresses conspiracy theories about weather modification, clarifying that while some ideas are far-fetched, real weather manipulation has been used in the past 4.

We have done it before, and that's why the industry is so important in this space.

--- Thomas Kostigen

These historical precedents demonstrate the transformative power of industry in geoengineering efforts.

   

Current Applications

Present-day geoengineering technologies aim to work with nature to mitigate climate change. Thomas Kostigen describes efforts like solar engineering, carbon engineering, and ocean engineering to reduce the burden on Mother Nature 5. He also mentions innovative solutions like artificial trees and marine cloud brightening, which can cool ocean areas and potentially save ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef 6.

How can we take and artificially help and assist Mother Nature to do that?

--- Thomas Kostigen

These technologies represent a collaborative effort between the private sector and the scientific community to address climate change at scale.