Engineered Sinks
Articles/Websites
Grades9, 10, 11, 12, APEarth and Space Sciences, Engineering
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by Project Drawdown
What it is
- This resource is currently being revised by Project Drawdown but you can research many of the other solutions in detail on their new Drawdown Explorer page.
- This article is a sector summary that defines and examines engineered sinks as one category of possible solutions for the issue of excess greenhouse gases, primarily focusing on biochar.
- The article provides a link to related data that comprehensively discusses the benefits and limitations of biochar production, as well as the impact of this method of carbon sequestration.
Teaching tips
Positives
- Although the article is brief, it will introduce students to this emerging emissions solution sector.
- This introductory summary lays the groundwork for teachers to plan a comprehensive unit based on engineering solutions to climate change issues.
Additional Prerequisites
- Teachers may wish to briefly discuss and define engineered sinks before assigning the article.
- Since the vocabulary is rigorous, a definition list will be helpful.
- Teachers and students will need internet access.
- Teachers can share the article via social media.
Differentiation
- Teachers in English classes can use this article as the starting point for a lesson about problems and solutions.
- This article can supplement a science lesson regarding human impacts on the environment and the growing mindset of engineering solutions to climate change problems.
- Since biochar is a topic throughout the article and also in the accompanying link to a more in-depth analysis, teachers may wish to have a piece of charcoal on hand as a visual aid.
From the scientist review
This resource from Project Drawdown discusses engineered sinks for carbon dioxide, specifically biochar. Biochar is a soil amendment technique created through the pyrolysis of biomass without oxygen. It can sequester carbon when buried in the soil and enhance soil fertility. This resource is well-sourced and recommended for teaching.
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