Say hello to Earth 300, the beautiful research supervessel that aims to be the “Noah’s Ark of science.” Does that mean it only has two of everything on board? Or that the Big Guy Up There is about to smite the planet?
No. And I’m not sure. But let’s have another look at it.
Earth 300’s mission is to ensure humanity’s survival by addressing its biggest threats, especially regarding environmental and ecological concerns. Specifically, the team behind the vessel aspires to tackle the pressing problems of carbon emissions, pollution, ecosystem degradation, water and food security, and global health resilience.
The Earth 300 is equipped with 22 laboratories, while it can host 160 scientists and 20 experts-in-residence from all over the world, who will have access to state-of-the-art tools for artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, and real time data processing.
The project has secured 15 partners so far, including start-ups Chipsafer and WOW. The collaboration with Chipsafer focuses on developing tech to monitor environmental conditions across the planet, and the one with WOW targets proprietary recycling techniques for schools.
Unfortunately, these is one question that the team behind the Earth 300 have failed to answer: will “normal” passengers be allowed on board? And if so, will there be parties or at least events to join?
Unfortunately, there’s no answer on that. Which is a crying shame — because if there’s one thing the story of Noah’s Ark taught me, it’s that a boat’s the place to be while the world is getting messed up.
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