Can We Cool, Without Increasing Warming?

In summary, a new solution has been proposed to cool buildings in Toronto by channeling near freezing water from the bottom of Lake Ontario into them, reducing the need for traditional air conditioning and decreasing CO2 emissions. However, concerns have been raised about the potential impact on the lake's ecosystem and temperature. The overall effect is expected to be minimal, as the heat from the buildings will either be absorbed by the incoming water or the passing air.
  • #1
Dayle Record
318
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This has to do with global warming, and a new solution to cooling buildings in Toronto. I read today where the near freezing water from the bottom of Lake Ontario will be channeled into large buildings in Toronto to cool them, thereby decreasing the need for traditional, air conditioning, and a decrease in CO2 emissions, and etc.

This sounded great, but they are still warming the world, and then maybe Lake Ontario as well. I presume the water will go back into the lake on the top or the heat will rise to the top, but will they alter the temperature of the lake by this means and cause algin overgrowth, or change the bottom environment on the lake to the extent that negative things occur? The lake is large, but that freezing core of it has surely something that it supports. Here is the article.

http://www.enwave.com/enwave/dlwc/
 
Earth sciences news on Phys.org
  • #2
I don't think the amount of heat being contributed by the buildings will be enought to have any practical effect.
 
  • #3
I was thinking inversely, I guess, what about increased heat in the lake, from loss of cold water layer in the bottom.
 
  • #4
The heat from the buildings whether released directly into the water or into the air, will still try and find equilibrium, so the water of the lake will either absorb heat from the incoming water or from the passing air. The overall result should be pretty much the same (the passing air will be a tiny bit cooler, the returning water a tiny bit warmer).
 

Related to Can We Cool, Without Increasing Warming?

1. Can we cool the Earth without increasing global warming?

There are several methods scientists have proposed to cool the Earth without increasing global warming, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, implementing geoengineering techniques, and increasing the use of renewable energy sources.

2. What is geoengineering and can it effectively cool the Earth?

Geoengineering involves large-scale manipulation of the Earth's climate system to offset the effects of global warming. While some techniques have shown potential in computer models, there are still many uncertainties and potential risks associated with geoengineering.

3. How can renewable energy sources help cool the Earth?

Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, emit significantly less greenhouse gases than fossil fuels. By transitioning to these sustainable energy sources, we can reduce the amount of heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere and potentially cool the Earth.

4. What are some natural ways to cool the Earth?

There are several natural processes that can help cool the Earth, such as increasing the Earth's albedo (reflectivity) through reforestation, reducing deforestation, and restoring wetlands. These methods can help reflect more sunlight back into space, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the Earth.

5. How can individuals help cool the Earth?

Individual actions, such as reducing energy consumption, using public transportation, and supporting renewable energy initiatives, can all contribute to the overall effort of cooling the Earth. Additionally, advocating for and supporting policy changes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions can have a significant impact on slowing global warming.

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