Concepts for intentionally modifying our global climate — known as geoengineering — are rapidly emerging into the scientific policy and public discussions surrounding climate change. This public event, which took place in Ottawa on January 18, features a keynote address from Professor Steve Rayner (Oxford University) and a responding panel of leading international academics and practitioners. The keynote and panel kick started a two-day conference that focused on the science, ethics and governance of geoengineering. The event was sponsored by CIGI and the Canadian International Council (CIC).