In theory, scientists understand how to manipulate Earth's climate systems enough to cause cooling, therefore blunting the effects of global warming. Is it time then to fast-track a geoengineering research agenda to refine such techniques?
Nuclear power is offered as a solution to U.S. reliance on fossil fuels and impending climate change. But can the existing federal regulatory structure handle the demands of a revitalized industry? Our four discussants explore the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's future.
The development of biochemical weapons based on body substances would broaden the scope of the biowarfare threat beyond microbial pathogens and toxins. Our experts assess the impact of these new lethal and incapacitating agents.
How do climate scientists make their global weather forecasts, and why don't they always agree? Our experts explain the theory and practice of climate modeling and discuss how climate predictions should be interpreted and used.
If people refuse to limit their resource consumption and subsequent carbon emissions, should we think about ways in which to limit the world's population? Our experts confront the final taboo in environmentalism.
The advance of biological technologies that allow for the construction of specific genetic sequences raises the harrowing possibility that someone, somewhere would use available genetic information to unleash a biological attack.
The drumbeat for a nuclear-weapon-free world is growing loud again, with protests in Britain about the Labour Party’s decision to renew its nuclear capability, and hunger strikes at the University of California in opposition to U.S. plans for a reliable replacement warhead.
When considering ways to limit carbon dioxide emissions, experts argue that all options should be considered—including nuclear power.