Execution threat for hunger strikers facing deportation

Crisis in Climate Change

Every Cloud could have a silver lining in the fight against global warming and the brighter, the better. Professor Stephen Salter, a renowned engineer working at Edinburgh University, has hatched a plan to produce white clouds over the ocean to halt the catastrophic water heating associated with global warming.

The Plan

In the worst-case scenario, where global "tipping points" such as the melting of the Arctic ice cap are reached, Salter advocates launching a fleet of cloud-producing drone ships to save Earth. The idea is to build boats to sail the ocean and produce a spray of tiny water droplets around which white clouds can form. Salter suggests that around 400 of these wind-powered boats would be needed, at a cost of £100 million.

The Importance of Albedo

The brightness of a cloud, called its albedo, is directly related to how much heat it reflects, with white clouds more reflective than dark ones. Currently, the ice caps reflect much of the sun's heat, but if they melt, the dark ocean will absorb its energy and warm up, causing weather patterns to change. Salter's cloud-making plan aims to increase the albedo over the ocean through the formation of white clouds, thus reflecting more heat back into space.

Limited Support and Funding Challenges

Salter has faced difficulty in garnering support for his idea. He holds little faith in government initiatives and has received only limited funding from a TV channel to build a prototype of his cloud-producing boats. The UK government, in particular, is hesitant to engage in geo-engineering and prefers to focus on reducing emissions to combat climate change.

Professor Anne Glover's Support

Despite the challenges, Professor Anne Glover, chief scientific adviser for Scotland, welcomes Salter's plans and states that the Scottish government would fund "radical" thinking as long as the rationale is sound. She believes Salter's innovative science has the potential to contribute positively to the fight against global warming.

Hotels and Climate Change

While the focus of this article is on Professor Salter's cloud-making plan, it is important to note the broader implications of climate change for various industries, such as the hotel industry.

Impact on Tourism

Climate change has the potential to significantly impact tourism. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and changing landscapes can alter popular travel destinations and disrupt the tourism industry. Hotels, in particular, may face challenges due to changing travel patterns and customer preferences.

Adapting to Change

In response to climate change, hotels are exploring innovative solutions to become more sustainable and reduce their environmental impact. Many are implementing energy-efficient practices, incorporating renewable energy sources, and adopting green building standards.

Climate-conscious Travelers

Furthermore, climate-conscious travelers are increasingly seeking out eco-friendly hotels that prioritize sustainability. These travelers value accommodations that minimize their carbon footprint and support local communities.

The Role of Hotels in Mitigating Climate Change

Hotels have the opportunity to play a proactive role in combating climate change. By embracing sustainability measures, reducing energy consumption, and raising awareness among guests, hotels can contribute to the global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment.