Billionaires such as Bill Gates, George Soros, and Facebook co-founder Dustin Moskovitz have shown interest in “solar geoengineering,” a controversial method proposed to cool the Earth by reflecting sunlight away from it.
This approach, also known as solar radiation management (SRM), is gaining attention as the planet approaches critical temperature thresholds. Exceeding a 1.5 degrees Celsius increase is feared to push the Earth past tipping points, leading to severe environmental changes.
Despite its potential, solar geoengineering remains highly disputed. Environmental groups have long opposed it, and recent discussions have intensified.
In February, over 60 researchers advocated for more in-depth study and small-scale experiments on SRM. A United Nations report echoed this sentiment, suggesting that exploring SRM could be valuable in the fight against climate change.
Researchers call for more study on solar geoengineering, but many remain skeptical.The White House also announced a five-year research initiative last October to explore ways to alter sunlight exposure.
Nonetheless, many climate scientists are skeptical, warning that normalizing SRM research could have dangerous, unpredictable effects. They argue that SRM is speculative and could be a hazardous distraction from essential climate action.
The UN Environment Program (UNEP) has stressed that SRM is not yet suitable for large-scale use and highlighted the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions as a priority. The UNEP’s stance, supported by a 2022 paper, emphasizes that SRM is not a viable climate solution due to governance challenges and potential risks.
Lili Fuhr from the Center for International Environmental Law criticized SRM as an “ultimate false solution” and stressed that it is not a replacement for mitigation efforts.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has similarly downplayed SRM in its reports, citing inadequate understanding and the risk of new harms.
While some advocate for further research, many experts caution against focusing on SRM, urging instead for immediate, robust action to reduce emissions.