Legal Frameworks for Geoengineering: A Techno-Policy Perspective

[Geoengineering News]

https://injoere.com/index.php/injoere/article/view/455

Authors: Rini Adiyattil, S. Thangamayan, Srinidhi S., Kavya G, Surya Boopathy, A. Jeeva Lakshmi

Abstract

Climate change has intensified interest in geoengineering as a potential supplementary response to global warming. Technologies such as solar radiation modification and carbon dioxide removal present opportunities to mitigate climate risks, yet they simultaneously raise complex legal, ethical, environmental, and geopolitical concerns. Existing international environmental law was not designed to regulate large-scale climate intervention technologies, resulting in significant governance gaps regarding authorization, liability, transboundary harm, monitoring, and accountability. This paper examines the evolving legal frameworks applicable to geoengineering through a techno-policy perspective, assessing the adequacy of current international treaties, soft-law mechanisms, and national regulatory initiatives. It further evaluates the challenges posed by scientific uncertainty, uneven distribution of risks and benefits, and the absence of a comprehensive global governance regime. The study argues that effective regulation requires an integrated approach combining technological risk assessment, precautionary governance, international cooperation, public participation, and adaptive regulatory mechanisms. By analyzing contemporary developments in geoengineering governance, the paper proposes a framework for balancing technological innovation with environmental protection, intergenerational equity, and global climate justice. The findings contribute to ongoing debates concerning the future regulation of emerging climate intervention technologies and their role within international climate policy.

Source: INJOERE