This Scientist Made a Super-Tree to Fight Climate Change

Lackner and his team at Arizona State University are developing technology to capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, viewing it as a waste management issue. Inspired by trees, they aim to create synthetic versions that are more efficient. Their material can absorb CO2 and release it for reuse, potentially aiding in reducing emissions. Despite challenges in scaling and cost, the technology shows promise. Critics worry it may reduce the urgency to cut fossil fuel use, but the need for solutions is pressing.

How do Lackner and his colleagues at Arizona State University view carbon dioxide?

• As a harmless gas

• As a valuable resource

• As a renewable energy source

• As a waste management problem

What natural process inspired Lackner's research on CO2 removal?

• Solar energy absorption

• Photosynthesis in plants

• Water filtration in rivers

• Wind energy generation

What is the key component of Lackner's CO2 capture technology?

• A magnetic field

• A metallic filter

• A papery material with resin

• A liquid solvent

How does the papery material release the captured CO2?

• By exposing it to sunlight

• By applying pressure

• By heating it

• By dunking it in water or exposing it to humidity

How much more efficient is Lackner's synthetic tree compared to a natural tree in capturing CO2?

• 100 times

• 500 times

• 1000 times

• 2000 times

What is a major challenge in using synthetic trees to balance current CO2 emissions?

• The technology is too complex

• It requires a massive number of synthetic trees

• It is not effective in urban areas

• It cannot be scaled beyond small projects

What concern do critics have about the ability to scrub CO2 from the atmosphere?

• It might increase the use of fossil fuels

• It could harm natural ecosystems

• It is too expensive to implement

• It may not be effective in the long term