The Download: Big Tech’s carbon removals plans, and the next wave of nuclear reactors

Big Tech companies like Microsoft and Alphabet are investing in carbon removal through bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), despite concerns raised by experts. Kairos Power, a nuclear startup, is developing next-generation nuclear reactors using molten salt cooling for cost-competitive and safer operation. Millions of IVF embryos are stored worldwide, raising ethical questions about their status and what should be done with them. Other tech news includes ChatGPT introducing an erotica function, YouTube running controversial ads, and Instagram implementing new age-gating measures.