Is the Global South still absent from the SRM governance arena? A wake-up call in 2026 - Preprint

[Geoengineering News]

https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=6408367

Authors: Yvette Ramos, Luisa Schmidt, Filipe Duarte Santos

13 March 2026

Abstract

Solar Radiation Management (SRM) is increasingly attracting attention in scientific and policy spheres due to its potential to partially offset anthropogenic climate change. Yet governance discussions remain fragmented and dominated by actors from the Global North (GN), while the Global South (GS), despite its disproportionate vulnerability to climate impacts, remains underrepresented in agenda-setting and decision-making processes.This article approaches SRM governance as both a climate policy and sustainable development challenge. Governance arrangements lacking legitimacy and inclusiveness risk undermining Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), while also affecting international cooperation under SDG 17.Drawing on a qualitative literature review and a case study of the SRM Non-Use Agreement, the article examines the evolution of SRM debates and the structural factors shaping participation in governance discussions. The analysis highlights persistent Global South underrepresentation and explores institutional mechanisms capable of embedding transparency, participation, and ethical safeguards in emerging SRM governance frameworks.By linking SRM governance debates with principles such as Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC), the article proposes governance mechanisms aimed at strengthening transparency, consent-based decision-making, and capacity-building. These mechanisms translate climate justice principles into practical governance requirements relevant to emerging SRM research and policy discussions.

Source: SSRN