David Keith

Definition

David Keith is a prominent scientist known for his work in the field of geoengineering, particularly focusing on solar radiation management and carbon capture technologies. His research emphasizes the potential risks and ethical considerations of large-scale climate intervention strategies, raising important questions about their feasibility and implications for global governance. Keith is also involved in discussions about the role of technology in addressing climate change, highlighting both its promise and its challenges.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. David Keith is a professor at Harvard University, where he teaches applied physics and public policy, blending technical research with societal impacts.
2. He has proposed various geoengineering techniques, including methods for solar radiation management, which involve techniques such as injecting aerosols into the stratosphere.
3. Keith has authored numerous influential papers and books discussing the scientific, ethical, and political dimensions of geoengineering.
4. His work highlights the importance of governance frameworks to manage the risks associated with geoengineering technologies and their deployment.
5. David Keith emphasizes that while geoengineering could provide temporary relief from climate change effects, it should not be seen as a substitute for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Review Questions

• What are some key contributions David Keith has made to the field of geoengineering, and how do they influence current debates?
  • David Keith has significantly contributed to geoengineering through his research on solar radiation management and carbon capture technologies. His ideas encourage critical discussions about the feasibility, risks, and ethical implications of deploying such technologies. By combining scientific inquiry with policy analysis, Keith's work shapes how society perceives the potential benefits and dangers of geoengineering as part of climate intervention debates.
• How does David Keith's perspective on governance relate to the development and implementation of geoengineering strategies?
  • David Keith argues that effective governance is crucial for managing the risks associated with geoengineering strategies. He believes that without proper oversight, these technologies could lead to unintended consequences or exacerbate existing inequalities. His emphasis on governance highlights the need for international cooperation and regulatory frameworks to ensure that geoengineering is developed responsibly and ethically while considering its impacts on global communities.
• Evaluate David Keith's stance on using geoengineering as a response to climate change in relation to traditional mitigation strategies.
  • David Keith maintains that while geoengineering could offer potential solutions to mitigate climate change impacts, it should not replace traditional strategies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. He emphasizes that these technologies could serve as complementary tools but raises concerns about over-reliance on them, which might lead to complacency regarding necessary emissions reductions. In evaluating his stance, it becomes clear that Keith advocates for a balanced approach that combines innovative technological solutions with strong commitment to sustainability and emission reduction efforts.

Related terms

Geoengineering: The deliberate manipulation of the Earth's climate system to counteract climate change, often through large-scale technological interventions.

Solar Radiation Management (SRM): A type of geoengineering aimed at reflecting a small percentage of the sun's light and heat back into space to cool the Earth.

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): A technology designed to capture carbon dioxide emissions produced from the use of fossil fuels in electricity generation and store it underground to prevent it from entering the atmosphere.