The challenge here isn't so much the few remaining technological hurdles, but financial viability. Assuming we start with the low hanging fruit — using the dirigibles to transport cargo — would consumers tolerate receiving their goods in weeks instead of days, even if it meant possibly saving the planet?

Perhaps we could create financial incentives for them to bear the delay. Lower prices in exchange for the longer delivery time? But would lower rates make the dirigible cargo business viable? I’d like to see the numbers here.

After all, in today’s world, if something can’t be justified in terms of profit, its not going to happen.