Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. Such shifts can be natural, due to changes in the sun’s activity or large volcanic eruptions. But since the 1800s, human activities have been the main driver of climate change, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas.
Burning fossil fuels generates greenhouse gas emissions that act like a blanket wrapped around the Earth, trapping the sun’s heat and raising temperatures.
Ambient carbon capture removes carbon dioxide from the air. According to the IEA, once captured, the CO2 can be stored either geologically or biologically. One of the most common methods is called Direct Air Capture (DAC), which uses large machines to suck in air and filter out CO2. Once that’s captured, it can be stored underground or used in other applications.
Coral reefs are threatened by both ocean warming and acidification. This can lead to coral bleaching and ultimately the death of entire reef ecosystems. But there are technologies being developed that can help cool the reefs and prevent further damage. One such technology involves pumping cooler water from deeper in the ocean to the surface, effectively creating a “refrigeration system” for the reefs.
Solar geoengineering is a technology that reflects the sun’s energy back into space. In theory, this could help mitigate global warming. One way we can try this solution out is by using reflective particles or aerosols to create a “sunshade.” Like standing in the shade to avoid a sunburn on our skin, this would reduce the amount of solar radiation that reaches the Earth’s surface.
Ocean fertilization involves adding nutrients to the sea to stimulate the growth of phytoplankton — microscopic plants that are vital to the health of the water and the life that inhabits it. This process can also benefit us, as it can absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis.
Surprisingly, changing the way we handle livestock farming can impact climate change. Livestock farming of cattle has been proven to have a significant environmental impact on things like greenhouse gas emissions, land use, water pollution, and even deforestation. However, there is an emerging technology in the form of lab-grown meat.
Space-based solar power involves placing solar panels in space to collect solar energy and transmit it back to Earth via microwave or laser beams (via Energy.gov). This innovative type of solar power plant could potentially provide a consistent source of renewable energy. Science.org explains how it works: place large solar panels in orbit around the Earth and use microwave or laser beams to transmit the collected energy back to receiving stations on the ground.
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Innovate Nairobi is fully owned by Nairobi City County and is set to showcase innovations taking place; within county sectors, county incubation centres and the annual Innovate Nairobi Tech week. The platform aims to create greater visibility and build community for all makers and creators who give life to the terms Silicon Savannah.
