cooling
Environmental Defense Fund to research artificial cooling methods
The Environmental Defense Fund will invest in exploring technologies that could artificially cool the planet, reflecting sunlight into space as a way to combat rising global temperatures.
In short:
- The Environmental Defense Fund plans to fund research on solar geoengineering, a method for reflecting sunlight away from Earth.
- The research aims to understand the potential global impacts of these technologies, such as changes in precipitation and ocean currents.
- Despite controversy and skepticism, including from within environmental groups, the fund will start issuing grants this fall.
Key quote:
“We are not in favor, period, of deployment. That’s not our goal here. Our goal is information, and solid, well-formulated science.”
— Lisa Dilling, associate chief scientist at EDF
Why this matters:
As global temperatures continue to rise, innovative solutions like solar geoengineering may offer temporary relief. Supporters argue that, with global warming accelerating, it's essential to have a range of strategies on the table. Reflecting sunlight to cool the Earth could buy valuable time, helping to mitigate the worst effects of climate change while longer-term solutions are implemented.
Opponents worry about the unknown risks and ethical implications of manipulating our planet’s climate system. There's also the fear that such technological fixes could detract from efforts to cut emissions at the source.
Massachusetts town pilots geothermal heating and cooling system
A neighborhood in Framingham, Massachusetts, is implementing a pilot program to connect homes and businesses to a communal geothermal heating and cooling system.
In short:
- The new system aims to reduce energy bills by 20% on average for participants, despite switching from natural gas to electricity.
- The geothermal system uses an underground loop filled with water and antifreeze to transfer heat, with each home having a heat pump to regulate temperature.
- The project could serve as a model for similar initiatives, supported by local emissions laws and utility company Eversource’s net zero goals.
Key quote:
“As soon as they told me about it, I bought in 100%.”
— Jennifer Mauchan, local resident
Why this matters:
Adopting communal geothermal systems can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy costs. If successful, this model could be replicated in other communities, aiding broader efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable energy use.
A Pennsylvania college's leap towards a sustainable future
Swarthmore College is transitioning from fossil fuels to a renewable-powered geoexchange system for campus heating and cooling.
In short:
- Swarthmore College aims for carbon neutrality by 2035, replacing its century-old natural gas system with a renewable energy-powered geoexchange system.
- The project involves drilling 350 wells and is part of a broader commitment by higher education institutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- This initiative not only showcases Swarthmore's commitment to sustainability but also serves as a model for other institutions.
Key quote:
" ... it's time to think about positioning the institution for the next century of energy rather than looking toward last century's energy systems."
— Andy Feick, associate vice president for sustainable facilities operation and capital planning
Why this matters:
By prioritizing renewable energy, Swarthmore College not only aims to significantly reduce its carbon footprint but also sets a precedent for others, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in safeguarding our environment and health.
Elizabeth Sawin: Steps to re-invigorate the economy must free us from polluting fossil fuels.
Australian wildlife adapts unusual cooling methods amid extreme heat
In response to rising temperatures, Australian native animals like kangaroos are adopting unique behaviors to stay cool.
In short:
- Kangaroos in Western Australia have been observed using saliva to cool down their bodies during heatwaves.
- Wildlife experts express concern over the impact of prolonged extreme temperatures on native species.
- Reptiles can better handle the heat, but mammals and birds face significant challenges during extended hot periods.
Key quote:
“Eventually, none of the behavioural or physiological tactics that animals have will protect them any longer and they'll start dying … it is a severe problem.”
— Bill Bateman, wildlife ecologist
Why this matters:
This adaptation by kangaroos underscores the need for conservation efforts and public awareness to help protect native species from the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves.
Eastern US forests show remarkable cooling effect, study reveals
A new study highlights the significant role of reforestation in the eastern United States in mitigating climate crisis-induced temperature rises.
In short:
- The eastern U.S. has experienced a "warming hole" where temperatures have stabilized or decreased, contrary to global trends.
- Reforestation in this region, covering an area larger than England, has been a key factor in this localized cooling effect.
- The cooling is primarily due to trees' transpiration process, which releases water vapor into the air, reducing surrounding temperatures.
Key quote:
"Nature-based climate solutions like tree planting won’t get us out of this climate change problem."
— Mallory Barnes, an environmental scientist at Indiana University
Why this matters:
This study underscores the power of reforestation in combating climate change, particularly in urban areas facing extreme heat. It's a vital reminder that alongside reducing emissions, nature-based solutions like tree planting play a crucial role in our overall climate strategy.
Researchers say "proforestation" policies are the fastest and most effective way to draw excess CO2 out of the atmosphere.
Winter strains on electric grids match summer challenges
In a shift from past trends, electric grids now face significant strain during winter months, matching the challenges traditionally seen in summer.
In short:
- Electric grids, initially designed for peak summer demand, are increasingly strained by winter usage due to growing electricity needs and aging infrastructure.
- The North American Electric Reliability Corporation predicts winter electricity demand may surpass summer usage by 2050, with current trends showing a rapid increase in winter demand.
- Challenges include inefficient electric heat pumps in extreme cold, reduced power imports from Canada, and the need for grid upgrades to accommodate changing demand patterns.
Key quote:
"We’re seeing both summer and winter peaks growing, but we’re seeing winter peaks growing faster."
— Jim Robb, chief executive of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation.
Why this matters:
This evolving trend in electricity usage underscores the need for grid modernization and adaptation, especially as it impacts health and safety during extreme weather. It also highlights the broader challenge of transitioning to sustainable energy sources while maintaining reliable power supply.
More people on the planet have access to electricity than ever before, however, the world is on pace to fall short on the goal of affordable and sustainable energy for all by 2030.
