The Download: Ethical Concerns Arise in the Race to Design 'Perfect' Babies, Big Tech's Carbon Removal Doubts, and India's AI Ambitions

Published on October 16, 2025 at 12:00 AM
The Download: Ethical Concerns Arise in the Race to Design 'Perfect' Babies, Big Tech's Carbon Removal Doubts, and India's AI Ambitions

Ethical Dilemma: The Quest for the 'Perfect' Baby

The field of genetic engineering is advancing rapidly, allowing parents to analyze embryos for future traits. While this technology is primarily used to prevent genetic disorders, it also raises ethical concerns as some parents seek to optimize traits like intelligence and appearance. The effectiveness of these services remains uncertain, raising questions about their value.

The Problem with Big Tech’s Favorite Carbon Removal Tech

Companies like Microsoft are investing heavily in bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) as a solution for carbon removal. However, this technology faces growing criticism, as its effectiveness and environmental impact are increasingly questioned.

Climate Tech to Watch: Fervo Energy and Enhanced Geothermal Systems

Fervo Energy is emerging as a leader in climate technology, utilizing fracking techniques to develop enhanced geothermal systems. This approach aims to provide a stable supply of renewable energy for data centers and homes, addressing key challenges in the transition to clean energy.

India's AI Independence Scramble

Despite being a global tech hub, India lags in AI development compared to the US and China. The recent launch of DeepSeek-R1 by a Chinese startup has prompted Indian policymakers to prioritize AI infrastructure and research, aiming to close the gap in AI development.