Climate restoration

Climate Restoration refers to the process of restoring the Earth’s climate to a state that is safe and sustainable for human civilization and natural ecosystems. It involves not only halting current climate change but also actively reversing the damage done by excessive greenhouse gas emissions, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2).

History

The concept of climate restoration emerged from the broader environmental movement and the growing recognition of the severe impacts of climate change. The idea gained traction in the early 21st century as scientists and environmentalists sought solutions that went beyond merely reducing emissions to actively repairing the climate. Initial discussions were rooted in the recognition that simply stabilizing CO2 levels would not be sufficient to prevent catastrophic climate impacts.

Climate restoration strategies began to take shape through various technological and natural approaches. These include carbon dioxide removal (CDR) techniques, such as direct air capture (DAC), bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), and enhanced weathering. Natural methods, like reforestation and soil carbon sequestration, also play a crucial role. These strategies aim to remove excess CO2 from the atmosphere and restore pre-industrial atmospheric conditions.

One of the significant milestones in the history of climate restoration was the founding of the Foundation for Climate Restoration (F4CR) by Peter Fiekowsky in 2017. The foundation focuses on promoting and implementing practical solutions for climate restoration. It has played a pivotal role in bringing together scientists, policymakers, and business leaders to collaborate on restoring the climate.