Solar Geoengineering: Trials, Innovation, Investments and the Need for Governance

[Geoengineering News]

https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5068179

Authors

Yvette Ramos, Filipe Duarte Santos

31 December 2024

Abstract

Solar geoengineering has emerged as a potential tool to mitigate climate change by reflecting solar radiation back into space. The rapid development of technologies such as Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI) and other Solar Radiation Management (SRM) methods has resulted in a growing number of patents, pilot projects, and private or state-driven investments. However, these advancements are often shrouded in secrecy, raising concerns about transparency, ethical responsibility, and the absence of inclusive governance frameworks. While geoengineering solutions may offer promise, the risk of exacerbating global inequalities-particularly for the Global Southremains significant. This paper examines current patents, investments, and trials in solar geoengineering, highlights their implications for international climate governance, and underscores the urgent need for a sound, ethical, and transparent global regulatory framework to ensure equity and accountability.

Source: SSRN