They war-gamed dimming the Sun. It went even worse than you think.
Summary
Experts from different countries and groups took part in a simulation to see how the world might handle new technology aimed at cooling the Earth by reflecting sunlight. The technology, called solar radiation modification, could reduce global warming but has many uncertain risks and uneven effects across regions. The simulation showed that governing this powerful but risky technology will be very complicated and urgent.Key Facts
- The simulation was held at Queen Mary University of London with foreign-relations experts, scientists, military members, and former government officials.
- Participants acted as representatives of governments, climate organizations, indigenous groups, and tech companies.
- Solar radiation modification works by spraying particles like sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere to reflect sunlight and cool the Earth.
- This cooling effect imitates the impact of volcanic eruptions but comes with unknown risks like drying in parts of Africa and stronger storms in the Atlantic.
- The cooling lasts only while the technology is active; if stopped, temperatures might rise quickly and unpredictably.
- Private companies, including a US-Israeli startup and Elon Musk’s SpaceX, are showing interest and investing in this technology.
- Experts warn the world must start planning how to govern solar geoengineering within the next decade.
- The simulation took place over made-up meetings set from now until 2028, showing how pressure to use these technologies could grow quickly.
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