The Download: creating the perfect baby, and carbon removal’s lofty promises

Source: MIT Technology Review – AI

The current race to create the perfect baby raises significant ethical questions, as advancements in cell analysis allow parents to predict various traits of their embryos. While some parents utilize these technologies to prevent genetic disorders, others seek out enhancements in intelligence and appearance, often at great financial costs. This burgeoning industry may leave many customers disappointed, as they might not receive the promised outcomes. Further exploration of these themes underscores a critical discourse on the implications of genetic selection in modern society.

On the climate change front, carbon removal technologies, particularly bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), are attracting significant investment from tech giants like Microsoft. However, experts caution about potential drawbacks and inconsistencies with these methods, reminiscent of issues related to carbon offsets and sustainable alternatives. The growing reliance on such technologies calls for scrutiny regarding their actual impact on emissions reduction and their feasibility for large-scale applications. This raises awareness about the need for more transparent and effective solutions in combating climate change.

👉 Pročitaj original: MIT Technology Review – AI