OCEAN DIALOGUES 2008: Climate Change Mitigation: Is there a role for ocean iron fertilization?

Start Date/Time: Monday, April 28, 2008, 3:00 PM
Location: OSB425

Dr. Margaret S. Leinen, Chief Science Officer for CLIMOS, Inc,

Former Assistant Director of NSF for GEOSCIENCES and the ENVIRONMENT.

Abstract:
The recent report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) emphasizes the virtual certainty of climate change and the major influence of human activity in causing the change. Many research studies since the report suggest bigger impacts and more rapid rates of change than highlighted by IPCC. Significant questions to begin a dialogue include:

- What are the choices available to deal with CO2 emissions?

- Are they sufficient to reduce our risk of substantial climate impact?

- What other choices are available; how can geoscientists help evaluate them?

- What should we make of private sector interest in funding development activity in climate mitigation and adaptation?

*Concept of Ocean Dialogues:
Several years ago, we began exploring the idea of having wide open discussion sessions in which controversial issues could be developed in a relaxed venue. This approach can afford opportunities to highlight alternative viewpoints on issues and ethics that may be crucial to the future of the Oceans, our Environment, and Society in general. Margaret has agreed to be a provocateur in an Ocean Dialogue Session with students, faculty, staff, and interested citizens from the College of Ocean and Fisheries, and beyond. We will explore the pros and cons of Ocean Iron Fertilization (Google it! - and check out “carbon credits”). We will also explore the concept that it is possible to disagree without being disagreeable.

It would be useful to know, in advance, if you are planning to participate.

Please share this announcement with potentially interested colleagues.

Local Contact:
John Delaney, 206 543-5059
jdelaney@u.washington.edu