Solar Radiation Modification (SRM): Intractable Governance and Uncertain Science

Abstract

Solar radiation modification is highly controversial. The implementation of invasive geoengineering technologies would entail serious and largely unforeseeable ecological, and geopolitical risks. Considerable scientific disagreement exists around the extent of the risks, how they relate to increased risks of climate change, and whether uncertainties could be resolved. In expert workshops held in 2022 the scientific, technical, and geopolitical viability and desirability of SRM was discussed. This discussion paper presents a blended overview of the academic literature on solar geoengineering and the positions expressed at expert workshops, as well as personal assessments from the authors.