The key idea behind MEER.org is to use surface solar reflectors made from recycled materials to restore Earth’s energy balance and mitigate the effects of climate change. The main points are:
– MEER combines adaptation and mitigation efforts using Surface Reflection Technology (SRT) to cool the surrounding area by reflecting sunlight away from the Earth’s surface.[1][2]
– If deployed at a regional scale, the mirrors have the potential to cool the local area, not just the buildings they are installed on.[1]
– MEER’s mission is to collaboratively design, test, and implement durable surface-based passive solar reflectors that provide local cooling for land and freshwater bodies, helping safeguard agriculture, ecosystems, and human habitats.[1]
– MEER’s solutions operate within the energy, material, and time constraints to combat global warming, with the goal of limiting global temperature rise to below 1.3°C or 2°C compared to pre-industrial levels.[1][2]
– The reflectors are made from recycled materials like PET and aluminum, diverting waste streams and providing a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solution.[3]
– MEER’s passive cooling systems can reduce indoor temperatures by 5-7°C, provide relief for agriculture, and reduce evaporation from water reservoirs, addressing multiple climate change impacts.[5]
In summary, MEER.org is developing scalable, sustainable surface reflection technology to directly counteract the warming effects of climate change and provide practical cooling solutions for communities.[1][2][5]
Citations
[1] https://www.meer.org/the-concept
[2] https://www.meer.org/faq
[3] https://www.meer.org/why-meer
[4] https://www.meer.org/projects
[5] https://www.meer.org
