Macro-Engineering [electronic resource] : A Challenge for the Future / edited by Viorel Badescu, Richard B. Cathcart, Roelof D. Schuiling.

Geo-Engineering and Energy Production in the 21st Century -- Mineral Sequestration of CO2 and Recovery of the Heat of Reaction -- Large-scale concentrating solar power (CSP) technology -- Wind parks, mariculture, nutrients from organic waste streams, CO2 sequestration: A fruitful combination? -- A Macro-project to Reduce Hurricane Intensity and slow Global Sea Level Rise -- Mitigation of Anthropogenic Climate Change Via a Macro-Engineering Scheme: Climate Modeling Results -- A Dual Use for Space Solar Power -- Space Towers -- Extreme Climate Control Membrane Structures -- Cable Anti-Gravitator, Electrostatic Levitation and Artificial Gravity -- Planetary Macro-Engineering Using Orbiting Solar Reflectors -- Stellar Engines and the Controlled Movement of the Sun -- Macro-Engineering in the Galactic Context.

Macro-engineering involves the large-scale modification and manipulation of natural systems for the benefit of mankind. The primary goals of some Earth-based macroprojects described in this book are power production, land reclamation, food production, climate change, environment, water, transport and coastal protection. Other Earth or space projects considered here have a more futuristic ring, but our present-day technical skill makes their realization possible. Earth-based macroprojects usually combine different aspects and aims. They have a major impact on the ecology of a region and the inhabitants' means of living (like tourism, fishing, shipping). Its effects may be felt worldwide, like the rise in global sea level after the damming and evaporation of large ocean gulfs for power production, or the change in climate following the regional reduction of solar insolation. Audience: This book will be of interest to researchers involved in macroprojects and students of Natural Sciences and Engineering.