Introduction
On July 20th, 2023, environmental enthusiasts, researchers, and concerned citizens from around the world came together for a thought-provoking webinar on Climate Engineering. Hosted by Adenike Akinsemolu, the esteemed Director of the Green Institute, the event aimed to shed light on one of the most critical and controversial aspects of tackling climate change. The #OfficiallyGreen Webinar Series has been gaining popularity for its informative and insightful discussions, and this latest installment did not disappoint. Let's take a look at the highlights of this remarkable event and the esteemed individuals who joined the discussion.
The Topic: Climate Engineering
Climate Engineering, also known as geoengineering, refers to deliberate and large-scale interventions in the Earth's climate system to mitigate the impacts of climate change. These interventions come in various forms, such as Solar Radiation Management (SRM) and Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) techniques. The webinar explored the promises and challenges of these technologies, their potential consequences, and the ethical considerations surrounding their deployment.
The Distinguished Attendees
The success of any webinar lies in the active participation of its attendees, and the Climate Engineering webinar was no exception. The event was attended by a diverse group of individuals, each bringing their unique expertise and perspectives to the discussion. Among the registrants were:
Fatima Abokaso
Ololade Oloniyo
Idris Adebanjo
Wei-Jen Lee
Olusola George
Andrea Afranchi
Julian N Paton
Ahmad Muhammad Yusuf
Patricia Nwosu
Arome David
Peter Chisom Okere
Paula Viala
Kambo Martial Atse
Princewill Akarolo
Omolola Faleye
Foluke Arijeniwa
Zunaira Ashraf
Temidayo Aturu
Rachael Esanola
Olu Bamgbose
Mutiat Mohammed
Joshua Fiecas
Rabiu Mustafa
Maria Ilina
Clinton Etiuzale
Olushola Olajobi
Henry Umenwor
Winnie Ngaji
Emeka David Nlebem
Daniel Lopez
Iyanuoluwa Filani
Karen Scrivener
Humberto Peralta
Iboro Adam-Etuk
Sheba Palma
Wanjusi Lasto
Darrell Huddleston
Abiodun Tosin
Eugene Eteris
Their presence and engagement enriched the webinar and allowed for a broader range of perspectives on climate engineering.
Key Insights from the Webinar
During the webinar, Adenike Akinsemolu led the discussion, addressing several essential aspects of climate engineering. Some of the key insights included:
The Urgency of Climate Action: Climate engineering should not be seen as a replacement for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources. It should be considered as a supplementary measure to complement existing climate change mitigation strategies.
Ethical Considerations: Climate engineering raises ethical questions about who gets to decide and control these interventions. Ensuring inclusivity, transparency, and international cooperation are critical in this domain.
Potential Risks: While climate engineering offers the prospect of mitigating climate change, there are potential risks and uncertainties associated with large-scale interventions in the Earth's climate system. Understanding and managing these risks are vital before any deployment.
Scientific Research and Governance: There is a pressing need for more research to understand the consequences of climate engineering fully. Additionally, robust governance frameworks must be established to regulate its implementation and prevent unilateral actions.
Conclusion
Adenike Akinsemolu's #OfficiallyGreen Webinar Series on Climate Engineering brought together experts and enthusiasts alike to discuss one of the most complex and challenging topics of our time. With climate change continuing to impact our planet, exploring potential solutions like climate engineering becomes increasingly important. As we look to the future, it is evident that collaborative efforts and informed discussions like this webinar will play a crucial role in shaping responsible and effective climate policies.
If you missed this webinar, don't worry! You can download the PowerPoint presentation here
Moreover, mark your calendars for the next webinar scheduled for Thursday, October 19, 2023. Register now using this [link](insert link to the registration page) and join the global conversation on sustainable solutions to combat climate change.
Together, we can make a difference and secure a greener and healthier future for generations to come.
