Professor of Geophysical Sciences Meets with CSEJ

Dr. David Keith, a professor of geophysical sciences and founding faculty director of the Climate Systems Engineering Initiative at the University of Chicago, met with students in the Climate Science and Environmental Justice class. He described his work as an intersection of classic climate science, experimental atmospheric science and technology and public policy and how all that ties in with his current work to establish climate science engineering as a program at the university. 

Dr. Keith explained how we got to where we are today with the climate as a matter of cause and effect. Because fossil fuels power civilization, they drive carbon emissions into the atmosphere, leading to higher carbon concentrations, which are directly proportional to the temperature rise. This circumstance leads to climate change effects that directly impact human life. Dr. Keith fielded several questions from students about solutions, related ethical issues and their effect on future generations and the economy. 

The students had completed considerable research on Dr. Keith’s work, so they were able to discuss solar geoengineering in greater detail. Dr. Keith explained that solar geoengineering, reflecting some of the sun’s heat back from Earth to assist with cooling, would be helpful in managing climate effects; however, it would need to happen in conjunction with the removal of carbon emissions from our atmosphere. 

One of Dr. Keith’s most compelling points was that, while there is a lot of discourse between the oil industry and climate scientists, they need one another as experts in their fields to formulate solutions that are actually implementable. Additionally, he reiterated that science is not the same as public policy, but it should inform decisions at the lawmaker level. 

Speakers like Dr. Keith help students connect curriculum with real-world application. Interfacing directly with experts in their fields is a unique classroom experience that inspires students to connect reflection with action and questions with creativity. Parker is grateful to Dr. Keith for taking the time to meet with students.

Click here for photos.