The topic of climate change should undoubtedly be one of the most important issues globally as natural disasters persist and the consequences of climate change unravel. The writers of “Facing brutal climate math, US bets billions on direct air capture” remind readers that the world is failing to keep up with the Earth’s wrath. As an attempt to combat carbon emissions, there is a global plan to build factories that will capture and permanently store the gas–Direct Air Capture (DAC). The US government is spending $3.5 billion on the new global project, and Britain has pledged up to 100 million pounds ($124 million) for DAC research and development. Oil companies are expected to be involved in this project as they claim that DAC should solely be about “removing legacy emissions and not be about continued fossil fuel use.” In addition, cost is also an important conversation to have when talking about DAC. Considering the factors involved–energy, equipment, storage, and processes–it is expected that the project will be costly.
Although it is reassuring to finally witness global and concrete plans to address climate change, the uncertainty and doubt linger. It is unsure how this process will turn out as this is a complex project that is costly and requires environmental expertise. However, there are signs of hope.