Should we geoengineer larger ice caps?

TL;DR

This paper explores the concept of geoengineering to enlarge Earth's polar ice caps as a means to create a permanently cooler climate, potentially safeguarding civilization from climate catastrophes over millennia.

Contribution

It introduces the idea of long-term geoengineering to expand ice caps, highlighting a novel approach to climate stabilization and civilization survival.

Findings

Enlarging ice caps could lead to a stable, cooler climate state.

Long-term geoengineering requires millennia of commitment.

A cooler equilibrium state reduces climate catastrophe risks.

Abstract

The climate of Earth is susceptible to catastrophes that could threaten the longevity of human civilization. Geoengineering to reduce incoming solar radiation has been suggested as a way to mediate the warming effects of contemporary climate change, but a geoengineering program for thousands of years could also be used to enlarge the size of the polar ice caps and create a permanently cooler climate. Such a large ice cap state would make Earth less susceptible to climate threats and could allow human civilization to survive further into the future than otherwise possible. Intentionally extending Earth's glacial coverage will require uninterrupted commitment to this program for millenia but would ultimately reach a cooler equilibrium state where geoengineering is no longer needed. Whether or not this program is ever attempted, this concept illustrates the need to identify preference among potential climate states to ensure the long-term success of civilization.