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News Release from: IChemE (Institution of Chemical Engineers) | Subject: I Chem E Lovelock lecture
Edited by the Processingtalk Editorial
Team on 05 December 2006
Can we fix it - yes we can, say chemical
engineers
Chemical engineers have reacted positively in the face of dire predictions for the future of planet Earth offered by Professor James Lovelock during the IChemE 5th John Collier lecture in London
Chemical engineers have reacted positively in the face of dire predictions for the future of planet Earth offered by Professor James Lovelock during the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) 5th John Collier lecture in London on Tuesday 28th November 2006 Lovelock argued that the search for technological solutions to prevent further environmental degradation is futile
This article was originally published on Processingtalk on 2 Nov 2004 at 8.00am (UK)
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He contended that the effects of global warming caused by carbon dioxide emissions are irreversible and has instead emphasized the need for scientists to concentrate on technologies that would help humankind to adapt to climate change.
But in tune with the problem solving approach that is the hallmark of the discipline, leading figures have expressed confidence that science and technology has the potential to counter the worst effects of global warming.
IChemE Vice President and Dean of Engineering at Strathclyde University, Professor Colin Grant, provides a more optimistic view: "Even though the problems described by Lovelock are quite terrifying, I remain confident that chemical engineering has the capability to deliver solutions that will make a difference.
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Process intensification, green chemistry, fuel cell technology, carbon capture, nuclear energy both fusion and fission, offer society some lifelines in the face of dramatic climate change.
IChemE members are collaborating with technologists from across the scientific spectrum, in pursuit of those solutions".
IChemE Chief Executive, Dr David Brown shares Grant's positive outlook whilst calling on the public to support science and technology: "Professor Lovelock's prophecy on the effects of global warming on mankind is a timely eye opener and one that brings the climate change debate into even sharper focus.
However, with the technological measures on offer now, as well as those being developed for the future, there are reasons to be optimistic.
Science has the potential to head off the more catastrophic scenarios and provide time for us to adapt to a more sustainable way of life.
For centuries, science and technology have delivered the resources and means to sustain life.
Today, chemical engineers, alongside other science and technology disciplines, are working to ensure this continues without compromising the planet or the needs of future generations.
They need the research and technology investment, the commitment, and the public support to back this endeavor.
And as Professor Lovelock showed, time isn't on our side.
For us to have a fighting chance of dealing with the effects of climate change, it's important that both industry and the consumer buy into the technologies now".
The IChemE Sustainability Subject Group Chairman, Miles Seaman, echoes Grant's call to find solutions, "Although Lovelock's predictions might be overstated, we shouldn't take them lightly.
The challenges posed by global warming are urgent, and chemical engineers can deliver the solutions for a low carbon energy economy now.
We should also make sensible preparations to help society adapt to climate change".
Ana Montoro, an Environmental Process Engineer working for Bechtel, agrees with Brown's calls for urgent government action, "Technology can help solve the problems of climate change and help us to adapt to the changing environment.
Chemical engineers can deliver these technologies but decision makers must create the necessary legislative and economic framework for this to happen".
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