The Carbon Trap (The Carbon Series Book 1)

by Randy Dutton

  A Pakistani man in his mid-50s stepped up to the podium. “Representatives of the United Nations and partner organizations, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentleman, members of the press, on behalf of the United Nations Environment Program Executive Director, it is a great pleasure for me to address the launch of a series of technological breakthroughs that will remove and store atmospheric carbon.

  “I particularly wish to thank Dr. Sven Johansson for successfully leading Snath Genetics over the past decade. And to congratulate him and the Snath corporate family, led by our esteemed Mr. Alexis Swanson, on the creation of new CO2 trapping products that are being installed in facilities around the world as we speak. Through their diligent efforts, they have established an aggressive production plan that will quickly implement these solutions globally.

  “The UN has established a milestone that has brought climate change to the top of the world's agenda. Last month, the UN working group finished the requirements that all mankind must follow to meet this challenge.

  “The IPCC report was undoubtedly a success story, but there can be no room for complacency. Scientific evidence suggests that humanity now faces even stronger challenges than the fourth assessment anticipated.

  “Scientists, government officials, and civil society understand the urgent need to translate the IPCC findings into concrete action. Today, we initiate restorative actions. We, at UNEP, now with the full authority of the UN Security Council and all voting members, have implemented measures that respond to this demand, including integrated environmental assessments, taxes, fees, subsidies, and credits at regional and sub-regional levels; creation, with the IPCC and other partners, of science-policy interfaces in developing countries that address the impacts of climate change; and have developed scientific capability in developing countries, such as carbon trapping technologies that meet the goals of the Assessments of Impacts for Adaptation to Climate Change—AIACC.

  “AIACC is part of our shared history and UNEP is proud to move forward with this great initiative. In the lead-up to the Maldives Conference, a strong demand emerged for the UN to fast-track implementation of many of the solutions proposed by climate scientists.

  “Responding to this demand, UNEP released a compendium of findings launched by the Secretary General last year. We will continue to work closely with the Scientific Committee on Problems with the Environment to ensure the actions we took at the Maldives Conference are based upon sound science conducted by innovative companies like the Snath Group….Thank you.”

  He stepped off the stage to thunderous applause. Even the television commentators were caught up in the excitement.

  Charles retook the stage. “I now would like to present to you the President of the United States, streaming live from the Oval Office.”

  While the President was introduced and began speaking, Sven’s mind drifted to the crowd. They’re mesmerized. There isn’t a skeptical face to be seen. And I’m the one who made all this possible!

  President Fernandez continued, ”...that so many of you are here today is a recognition, that the threat from climate change is serious, it is urgent, and it is growing. Our generation’s response to this challenge will be judged by history, for if we fail to meet it – boldly, swiftly, and together – we risk consigning future generations to an irreversible catastrophe. No nation, however large or small, wealthy or poor, can escape the impact of climate change. Rising sea levels threaten every coastline. More powerful storms and floods threaten every continent. More frequent drought and crop failures breed hunger and conflict in places where hunger and conflict already thrive.

  “On shrinking islands, families are already being forced to flee their homes as climate refugees. The security and stability of each nation and of all peoples – our prosperity, our health, our safety – are in jeopardy. And the time we have to reverse this tide is running out.”

  The President paused to let a full minute of applause fade out.

  “I am proud to say that the United States, from today forward, will do more to reduce carbon dioxide pollution in the next couple years than at any previous time in history. We’re incentivizing industry to adopt cutting edge technology that will halt the rise of CO2. We’re investing in technologies that will pull CO2 out of the air for our fuel, our chemicals, our plastics. We’re using the full force of government to severely penalize industries that would weaken our efforts. We’re going to make carbon-based fuels necessarily cost prohibitive.”

  The crowd roared its approval.

  “We’re making our government’s largest-ever investment in renewable energy from atmospheric CO2. Across America, entrepreneurial companies, such as Snath Genetics, are constructing new technologies with the help of loan guarantees and tax credits – projects that are creating new jobs and new industries. We’re investing hundreds of billions of dollars in taxpayer money to cut CO2 emissions in our homes, buildings, and appliances – which in the short term may cost American families more on energy bills, but will pay dividends in the future.”

  Applause.

  “Let me be clear. Because no nation can meet this challenge alone, the United Nations, with concurrence from my administration, has empowered and funded allies and partners in finding solutions.”

  He was interrupted by loud applause.

  “America has given its full weight and authority to the UN in forcing action.”

  Even greater applause.

  “The UN has worked through the World Bank to promote CO2 scrubbing projects and technologies in the developing world. Now, we know that the global financial system will have to adapt to this new reality. This is okay. We know we are right, and eventually, we will be stronger for it.”

  “We also will not allow the old divisions that have characterized the climate debate for so many years to block our progress. Yes, the developed nations that caused much of the damage to our climate over the past century will bear the brunt of the responsibility to lead. America will shoulder the guilt we feel, and the pain we must absorb.”

  Applause.

  “The UN also will, through a new environmental force, compel action. And we are redefining America’s military to bear the brunt of that enforcement action.

  “But those rapidly-growing, developing nations that will produce nearly all the growth in global carbon emissions in the decades ahead must do their part as well. Some of these nations have already made great strides in reducing CO2 emission. This is good but...it is not enough. They will need to submit to strong measures at home and agree to stand by as those commitments are enforced. We cannot meet this challenge unless all the largest emitters of greenhouse gas pollution are forced to end their emissions. There is no other way. We shall work to leave the world one that is worthy of our children.”

  The Great Seal of the United States replaced the President’s image as thunderous applause erupted.

  The President’s speech was followed by an even longer one from the UN General Secretary. It now was 11:30 and the crowd was getting tired of political speeches.

  Charles again took the stage. “I would like to introduce to you, on screen, Mr. Alexis Swanson, president and CEO of the Snath Group, a visionary, and now a global protector.”

  Swanson’s image came onto the screen.

  “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m humbled by the kind words. I’ll make this short. Mankind has damaged the earth with its poisons; mankind is obligated to clean them up. And I took it upon myself to use my resources to bring together a team of dedicated experts to solve the problems posed by the increasing CO2 levels.

  “I particularly want to thank Dr. Sven Johansson, who led the effort to develop genetically engineered products that meet the needs of today’s society. And I further express my thanks to the rest of my team, which similarly exceeded expectations. I trust that humanity will judge us by our deeds. We endeavor to live up to our company logo: Finis Justificat Media. Thank you!”

  The Snath logo appeared.

  The room e
rupted in cheers – everyone rose out of their seats.

  “What does Finis Justificat Media mean?” the Wall Street Journal reporter quietly asked his news room via his microphone.

  “The End Justifies the Means,” came the flat response through his ear bud.

  “That’s chilling!” he quietly responded.

  Charles resumed his position on the dais. “Finally, I want to bring on stage Dr. Sven Johansson, president of Snath Genetics. This man needs no introduction. He’s gotten more press coverage over the past year than most movie stars.... Sven?”

  As Sven stepped up, Charles, beaming, extended his hand while the audience clapped enthusiastically.

  Sven briefed the crowd on the new products Snath Genetics was launching today. The briefing continued for about 30 minutes, concluding with, “…I want to add that many of our products have been idling in place, waiting for today, a date I personally have anticipated for 10 years. New Zealand, the first industrial country to reach the first of July, is also the first to have begun using these products. We already are monitoring the CO2 concentrations in selected locations upwind and downwind of our CO2 trapping technology. These measurements will be provided to the UNED, and to the media, at selected intervals.”

  Applause.

  “In a few moments Snath Genetics’ tour guides will demonstrate our products’ effectiveness at each of the designated spaces around the floor. Thank you for your patience. Now I’ll take your questions.” Sven pointed to one of dozens of raised hands. “Yes, the reporter from ABC.”

  “The UN IPCC has projected a rise in CO2 levels from its current 406 ppm to 436 within 10 years. What effect will your products have on that rate of increase?”

  “Straight to the point...I’m glad you asked. The IPCC also projected peak-CO2 approaching 600 ppm around 2097. Now, we all know our biosphere can’t take that level without severe global warming and environmental calamity. Snath scientists projects our products will reduce the rate of increase and will initially cause a small, but detectable, lowering by about 2.5 ppm per year to just under 427 ppm in the next 10 years. The curve is exponential, so a bigger difference will be seen in later years.”

  “When do you project CO2 rates stabilizing?”

  “Ah, that’s what we call the Carbon Cross. We project carbon dioxide stabilization in 2029 at about 430 ppm. We expect to see a small decline after that. Now folks, please remember these are rough calculations. How fast we roll out our products will affect the actual outcomes. Much remains to be done. Next question.”

  “Please explain The Carbon Cross name.”

  “The name represents mankind crossing into a new ecological era. That is, when carbon trapping technology permanently removes more carbon than global carbon emissions release.”

  Sven pointed. “The gentleman in the pink shirt.”

  “Do you have a failsafe for these products? I mean, can they get out of control?” the reporter from the San Francisco Daily asked.

  “Yes…and no. We have a failsafe, and no, they can’t get out of control…I’d like to tell you more, but that’s a highly complicated trade secret,” he grinned. “Trust me when I say, you don’t want to have to listen to genetic technospeak. Next question.”

  “Kate Segel from Bio-Engineering Magazine. Your company is bringing products to market much faster than your competitors. There are rumors that your products haven’t received the necessary regulatory scrutiny. Has Snath skipped any testing steps?”

  “Kate, we have met all regulatory requirements. What you have to consider is that global warming is such a serious issue, agencies around the world have fast-tracked our products to get them into the market so we can save the world from a climate disaster. We’ve not skipped any mandated testing. Next question.”

  “David Bagby with Science Genetics. Are you aware of allegations that some federal officials have been bribed to bypass testing protocols? And if so, would you comment?”

  “Our competition would love to catch up to us. They’ll use any tactic to smear our research and employees. Next?”

  “Collin Grantham with the Financial Times. Financial analysts say Alexis Swanson is set to make over a trillion dollars from selling these products, and trading carbon credits. Can you tell us if that estimate is correct?”

  “I don’t concern myself with financial transactions outside Snath Genetics. Frankly, I don’t have the time, or the curiosity. But let me say this...” His voice became very stern. “Our world is facing a disaster, and Mr. Swanson put his capital on the line to save the world. How much is that worth to the world if it works? I want to add that Mr. Swanson is a philanthropist who gives billions to charities and foundations. How much do you give?” he asked rhetorically.

  Applause.

  “Next question.”

  “It is reported that you attended the UN working group conference in the Maldives last month.”

  “That is correct.”

  “Can you tell us whether you ever met with the Maldives Environmental Minister, Mr. Hassan? And can you comment on his murder the day after the conference?”

  Sven eyes furrowed, his head tilted backward a little, and he exhibited sincere confusion. “I hadn’t heard of any murder…And I don’t recall ever meeting a Mr. Hassan.”

  “Follow-up question. Can you tell us if you have ever met Mr. Tom Heyward, the CEO of Profit Oil Exploration, or Mr. Art Middleton, VP of Global Mining Consortium, who also attended the conference?”

  “Not to my knowledge. How are those questions related?”

  “Mr. Heyward is charged with Mr. Hassan’s death, and Mr. Middleton is implicated. It is alleged Heyward had Mr. Hassan’s boat blown up in retaliation for alleged document manipulation related to rising ocean levels.”

  “No, this is the first I’ve heard of it, and no, I don’t know any of the three men. And frankly, I don’t see any relevance to today’s event. Next question, please.” Sven was disquieted by what he considered off-topic questions.

  “Art Franken from Rolling Stone. How do you respond to those who call your genetically modified products Franken Filters?”

  Sven held his hand out to quiet the audiences’ boos. “The detractors are out of step with history. Genetically modified foods have been around for decades. Genetically modified organisms have benefitted humans even longer. They’re being used to make plastics, fuels, medicines, and restore human bodies. These products are made from the same basic science from which other great inventions have sprung.”

  Cheering erupted.

  “Follow up question. Why can’t the public see the environmental impact statements your company alleges to have filed on your products’ effects on the biosphere?”

  “Because revealing the reports would expose our technology to illegal counterfeiting. The US government, with UN concurrence, gave us a special dispensation to not reveal the reports. To do otherwise would have delayed product introduction by years. Any more questions?”

  “Yes, Peggy Lipton, NBC local affiliate. It’s reported you’re a workaholic. How has your personal life suffered as a result of your being in charge of this company?”

  Sven smiled widely at the attractive redheaded newscaster. Hmm. She can’t be more than 30. Athletic, maybe 5’4”, I don’t see a wedding or engagement ring.

  “Peggy, I will admit my work has taken priority over my social life. With the unveiling of our Bio-Energy with Carbon Trapping and Storage products, BECTS for short, I hope to find time to work on the neglected aspects of a full life.”

  For a few seconds their eyes locked. She’s beaming...I think she’s flirting. I don’t think I’ll be alone tonight.

  “One more question.” His eyes scanned the room.

  “Sol Wiseman, Washington Register. Please comment on the President’s speech about the severity of action he says the US and the world must take on carbon reduction?”

  “Certainly. This President is the One we’ve been waiting for. He gets it. He understands CO2 is a pollut
ant, and the biggest problem facing us today. He is convinced, as am I, that CO2 will raise the oceans, threaten species, and create climate chaos, and that the repercussions of rising CO2 levels will cause the poor to starve. He agrees that the US has been a leading culprit in creating the problem, and that the US should spare no expense to take the lead in solving the problem....

  “Thank you, folks. If you have any follow up questions, please see Charles at the PR table. Good night.”

  And with that he stepped off the podium.

  Chapter 30

  July 1, 1130 hours

  Snath Genetics, South San Francisco

  After his speech, Sven was mobbed. He was wanted by the press for interviews, by industrialists desiring to create joint ventures, by politicians wanting a photo op, and by celebrities drawn to other celebrities. He was asked to speak at events, invited to glitterati-hosted Green Parties, approached for a couple of book deals, and numerous people wanting to touch him.

  Sven didn’t mind the attention. It fit his ultimate goal – getting the credit for saving the world.

  The fanfare petered out mid-evening. Sven was exhausted, yet very satisfied. The equipment vans were gone, what little of the catered food that remained had been divvied up among staff who had worked 14 hours straight. A few employees were still cleaning, and Charles was locking up.

  One visitor remained – Peggy Lipton, the attractive reporter who had filed her story and sent her crew back to the station. She knew it meant something to garner 10 minutes alone with Sven on an earlier interview—longer than anyone else had obtained. To her, Sven was a superhero...and single. Now strolling near the water’s edge, she was off work for the rest of the weekend, waiting.

  Sven glanced out through the entryway’s glass windows at the reporter near the water’s edge. Lipton’s still here, waiting for me to appear. She doesn’t even seem bored; well that’s a good sign. Hell, she looks pretty good leaning against the pillar, silhouetted by the dwindling sunlight reflecting off the Bay. I wonder if the red hair’s real? He grinned. I bet I can find out. And why not? I earned it today.