Engineering the Future: The Case for Geoengineering as the Key to Solving Climate Change—Thesis

[Geoengineering News]

https://repositories.lib.utexas.edu/items/b2979431-3cb0-4a8c-8ee4-910729a77d61

Authors

Khasgiwala, Aayan

Abstract

Climate change poses one of the greatest existential threats to human civilization, with far-reaching consequences for ecosystems, economies, and societies worldwide. Traditional mitigation strategies—such as international agreements, renewable energy transitions, and carbon pricing—have proven insufficient in curbing greenhouse gas emissions at the pace required to avoid catastrophic outcomes. This thesis argues that geoengineering represents a critical and underutilized tool in the global response to climate change. Through an interdisciplinary analysis, the thesis explores the scientific, ethical, and practical dimensions of four major geoengineering solutions: solar radiation management (specifically stratospheric aerosol injection), sponge cities, enhanced rock weathering, and biochar. Each method is examined in terms of feasibility, environmental impact, and scalability. Drawing from case studies, climate models, and emerging policy frameworks, the thesis contends that while geoengineering is not a panacea, it offers essential short- and medium-term solutions that can reduce climate-related harms and buy time for longer-term systemic reforms. Ultimately, the work concludes that a strategic, ethically guided deployment of geoengineering technologies, in tandem with existing mitigation efforts, is necessary to avert the most severe consequences of global warming.

Source: The University of Texas at Austin