Climate Editing: Geoengineering Technologies for Artificial CO₂ Control

Can technology really cool the Earth’s temperature? Teams at MIT and Berkeley are running real-world experiments with technologies designed to capture atmospheric CO₂ or block solar rays. This isn't science fiction—it’s the cutting edge of eco-engineering. Here’s how humanity is attempting to combat global warming through technological solutions.

Artificial Removal of Atmospheric CO₂

The Climate Innovations Lab at MIT is collaborating with Swiss company ClimeWorks to assess Direct Air Capture (DAC) systems. These technologies “suck” CO₂ directly from the air and store it underground—much like a battery stores energy. The aim is to purify the atmosphere and reduce the global carbon burden.

Solar Radiation Management in the Stratosphere

Berkeley’s SRM (Solar Radiation Management) research is testing methods to cool the planet by dispersing microscopic particles in the stratosphere. These particles reflect some of the sun’s energy, preventing surface overheating. Small-scale experiments are already underway in California’s tech corridors.

Global Debates and Ethical Boundaries

Geoengineering is more than just technology—it sparks global debate. As highlighted in Nature, many scientists worry about who should control such powerful systems. There’s a real risk that unintended consequences could affect countries not involved in the original decision-making.

Impacts and Recommendations

Organizations like IPCC and IEA agree that CO₂ control technologies are vital to meeting the 1.5°C target. However, they warn that robust regulation, complete transparency, and international consensus are critical. The bioethical boundaries of climate intervention remain largely undefined.

Conclusion

Geoengineering is no longer just theory—it’s becoming practice. Humanity is embarking on what may be the most ambitious climate experiment in history. The key question now: who gets to control the “thermostat”?

📌 Technology brings opportunity—but also responsibility. Is the world truly ready to edit the Earth’s climate?

✍ Thornike • June 27, 2025