Backing that view, the barrister for the investment and advisory team, further rejected claims about the potential ecological impact and threat to the habitat of rare species.

BBC: Northern Ireland

While some are saying that this is a harbinger of things to come, others are cautioning that such technology is not only expensive but also a potential ecological hazard.

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Researchers at the University of Texas are warning that the invasive species from South America has the potential to change the ecological balance in the southeastern United States, largely because the ants can wipe out colonies of what's been widely considered the insect villain of the region, the fire ant.

CNN: 'Crazy ants' a threat in southern U.S.

At the rollout, though, the ecological benefits took a backseat to the potential pocketbook savings and an appeal to younger and more affluent Indians who might appreciate some pizazz in what is usually a utilitarian fixture.

FORBES: A Eco Ceiling Fan For India's Hipsters

Its most far-reaching implications are still unknown but the tools have the potential to ease fuel shortages and ecological threats that are now in such sharp focus.

FORBES: Nanotechnology: Expanding Clean Energy and Easing Fuel Shortages

Efforts are already under way near the shoreline to deal with that potential scenario, including positioning boom material around sensitive ecological areas.

CNN: Oil spill from rig explosion at 5,000 barrels a day

The potential side effects of geoengineering are presently not well understood and will likely include unintended ecological consequences, which in turn can pose important political, social, and ethical challenges.

UNESCO: MEDIA SERVICES