MIT Technology Review Narrated Inside the quest to engineer climate-saving “super trees”
10 snips
Oct 16, 2024 Discover the Arctic's vibrant past and the role of photosynthesis in carbon absorption. Learn about groundbreaking efforts to engineer super trees that enhance carbon capture and combat climate change. Explore the challenges and ambitions faced by innovators in biotech forestry, and ponder the wider impact of these initiatives on our environment.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Azola Event
- Scientists discovered fossilized azola ferns in Arctic mud, suggesting the Arctic was once fern-covered.
- These ferns may have caused a drop in atmospheric carbon, leading to cooler global temperatures.
Living Carbon's Mission
- Living Carbon aims to create faster-growing, rot-resistant trees to enhance carbon capture.
- Inspired by ancient azola ferns, they want to induce a similar carbon-reducing event.
First GE Tree Planting
- Living Carbon planted genetically engineered trees in Georgia, a US first.
- Scientists like Steve Strauss express concerns about unknown environmental impacts and carbon absorption rates.