Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
6. Can geoengineering fix the issues associated with climate change? Should private sector be allowed to take part in geo-engineering technologies? Critically analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: Live Mint
Why the question:
There is no law or treaty to prevent a private company from tinkering with geo-engineering—say, releasing sulphur dioxide high in the stratosphere to alter the climate. And so there will be no fines or arrests following recent news that a startup quietly pulled off such a release last year by launching two balloons over Mexico.
Key Demand of the question:
To analyse if Geo-engineering could be a viable option to overcome the climate crisis and role of private sector in it.
Directive word:
Critically analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a fair judgement.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin the answer by defining geo-engineering.
Body:
You can use a bubble diagram to show the various modes of geo-engineering such as Shoot Mirrors into Space (Solar Sunscreen), Copy a Volcano, Build Fake Trees etc.
In the first part of the body, write about how the above strategies work and will be beneficial for the planet above and over existing mitigation strategies to tide over the climate crisis. Clearly outline as to why it may be needed.
In the next part, mention about the major drawbacks, impediments and concerns regarding the implementation of the above strategies.
Next, write about role of private sector in geo-engineering and their potential and concerns.
Conclusion:
Conclude the answer with a balanced opinion.
