Stardust Startup: Geoengineering with Proprietary Technology
A startup named Stardust is making waves in the geoengineering field, aiming to develop technology to block sunlight and combat climate change. This venture follows a past controversial experiment in 2012, where businessman Russ George dumped iron sulfate into the Pacific Ocean to trigger an algae bloom for carbon dioxide absorption. Stardust's approach, however, is unique: it's a private company developing proprietary technology, setting it apart from the predominantly public-funded research in the U.S.
The Ambition and the Concerns
While geoengineering projects have faced criticism from environmentalists due to potential risks such as air pollution and altered weather patterns, rising global temperatures are shifting sentiments. Stardust is positioning itself to sell its technology to governments, acting as a "defense contractor" for climate alteration. Amid limited oversight, the company faces calls for increased transparency.
CEO Yanai Yedvab, formerly with the Israel Atomic Energy Commission, emphasizes Stardust's commitment to publishing research results after scientific validation. The company is testing non-sulfate particles for solar radiation modification, aiming for a safer, more effective solution. However, experts like David Keith caution about the uncertainties of these novel particles.
The Call for Transparency and Oversight
Former climate governance consultant Janos Pasztor urges Stardust to be more transparent and engage with the public to gain "social license" for its activities. There are currently no international rules limiting geoengineering, raising concerns about unilateral actions impacting billions of lives. Pasztor recommends Stardust voluntarily disclose its activities and seek input from various groups before proceeding.
Stardust has published a basic website outlining principles like safety, scientific integrity, and supporting regulation. The company's team includes physicists, chemists, and engineers, with leadership from individuals with backgrounds in Israeli government nuclear research. Despite these steps, some organizations argue that Stardust's efforts could violate international agreements and lead to control by a few powerful entities.
The Geopolitics of Geoengineering
The potential for proprietary geoengineering technology raises concerns about governments becoming dependent on a single company. Some experts suggest Stardust explore options to share its intellectual property or have governments purchase the technology for public use. The historical ties between geoengineering research, national defense, and Silicon Valley add another layer of complexity.
Stardust's funding comes primarily from venture capital firms with connections to Israeli military and intelligence agencies. While the company denies any ties to the Israeli government, the potential for geoengineering technology to be used for strategic advantage or to disrupt international relations remains a concern. The call for democratic control over geoengineering technology is becoming increasingly important.
Source: Wired