European scientists urge ban on risky solar geoengineering

Solar geoengineering is like trying to lower the temperature in an overheated oven by reducing the heat inflow. The goal is to reflect some of the sunlight, for example, by brightening clouds, introducing reflective particles into the atmosphere, or employing mirrors in orbit.

Other solutions under consideration include scattering lunar dust or launching millions of tonnes of diamonds into space to reflect sunlight. Climate modelling suggests that such technologies could theoretically help limit the rise in global temperatures and mitigate the effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels or extreme weather events.

However, scientists warn that the side effects of such actions are difficult to predict and could have global repercussions. Altering the atmosphere could affect rainfall, disrupt ecosystems, or impede food production. Furthermore, such measures would not address the root issue of the problem—greenhouse gas emissions.

Experts from the European Commission stress that presenting solar geoengineering as an alternative could undermine current efforts to cut emissions and adapt to climate change. They caution that any intervention in the Earth's environment would necessitate international regulatory frameworks that consider the interests of all stakeholders and include compensation mechanisms for those who might be adversely affected. No such structures currently exist, and establishing them would be complex.

A document from the Group of Chief Scientific Advisors and the European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies notes that while some geoengineering technologies might seem like appealing solutions, their long-term consequences are too risky to overlook. Therefore, they are calling for a moratorium on any activities aimed at artificially cooling the Earth.