Aims

Discussions held during the workshop and thereafter should lead to a better understanding of the complex nature of the earth system, its physical, chemical and biological dimension as well as its social, cultural and economic dimension.

We will seek for answers to the question what technology developers and engineers are supposed to come up with to make sure that actual problems on the regional scale are solved without compromising the function of the earth system as a whole. In this context, ideas such as shading the earth, cooling the ocean, building large dams, diverting ocean currents and jet streams and engineering weather conditions are to be critically reviewed. It should be secured that a steady state is eventually reached characterized by man living in harmony with nature.

During the workshop, we also seek for answers to the question how to communicate the added knowledge derived from the discussions and reflections. How can we make sure that the decision makers of political and economic institutions pick up the information provided and act accordingly? Are press media an effective “transmission belt”, and how can science and press media improve interaction and cooperation?