By Mary Dai
The UK government has approved to fund a £57 million solar geoengineering project aimed to block the sunlight from entering the Earth. Whilst the initiative could potentially combat the long-standing problem of global warming, many scientists have raised concerns about its risks and the method being introduced remains controversial.
The experiment is being led by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA), which is an innovation lab that conducts scientific research. The government funding provided is allowing researchers to examine the idea of artificially cooling the planet. The aim is to reduce global warming by reflecting a portion of sunlight back into space before it reaches the Earth’s surface.
One of the methods is through stratospheric aerosol injection. This is done by using high-flying aircraft to inject reflective particles, such as sulphur dioxide, into the stratosphere. This helps prevent sun rays from reaching the ground, lowering the Earth’s temperature. Another way is known as marine cloud brightening, where boats are set to release aerosol particles and spray microscopic sea water droplets into the air, making low-lying clouds more reflective.
According to the Telegraph, small-scale outdoor trails will be announced within a few weeks. If the trials are proved successful, the techniques will be adopted on a larger scale following up. This could temporarily lower surface temperatures and the harm of the climate crisis. This also allows more time for humans to reduce worldwide greenhouse gases and carbon emissions.
Yet the methods suggested have faced many critics and some previous planned outdoor experiments have already been cancelled after strong opposition from experts. Many natural scientists and engineers had stood against this project, describing it as ‘barking mad’. Some argue that the idea of artificially altering the planet’s natural system is an ‘ambitious, even arrogant’ idea as it causes disruption to natural climate. Solar radiation management includes altering rainfall patterns and shifts to weather patterns, causing serious consequences. These types of geoengineering can risk further destabilisation and distribution to the climate system. In addition, it can also cause an effect on agriculture. While crops might suffer less heat stress, they might have fewer yields.
Ultimately, the debate over this project is still highly controversial. While some view it as a potential solution to global warming, others see it as a disruption towards the natural system. However, the question remains: can we control the climate without there being unintended consequences?