From emission control to carbon dioxide management

First Kiel Earth Institute Colloquium

The first Kiel Earth Institute Colloquium entitled ‘From emission control to CO₂ management’ took place in Kiel October 28, 2008. Prof. Lackner from Columbia Earth Institute, USA spoke about the vision of a CO₂ neutral economy. Prof. Wallmann from the Leibniz Institute of Marine Sciences showed the possibilities of ocean carbon capture by concurrent production of natural gas from methane hydrates. Participants of the following panel discussion on ‘Chances and Risks of CO₂-Management Options’ were the referees, the speakers of the KEI, Prof Visbeck and Prof Klepper as well as the philosopher Prof. Gregor Betz from Stuttgart University. In the center of the discussion was the question when society will regard CO₂ management as a core responsibility and is willing to mobilize capital. All panellists are certain that their will be a switching point after which scientists have to be prepared to show different solutions for the CO₂-management. Further discussed were the role of geo engineering and the responsibility and ability of humans to take corrective actions in the climate. Thomas Ramge, author of the economy magazine ‘brand eins’ moderated the panel.

Programme