Scientists Warn of the Dangers of Dimming the Sun, Here’s the Reason

JAKARTA – Environmental Assembly PBB this week discussed a resolution regarding solar radiation modification, a controversial technology that aims to dampen the warming effects of greenhouse gases by reflecting some of the sun’s rays back into space.

Supporters argue that this technology can limit the impacts of climate change. However, this “geoengineering” risks destabilizing an already fragile climate system. The full impact is not known until after it is implemented.

As reported by Science Alert, the initial draft resolution called for the formation of an expert group to study the benefits and risks of solar radiation modification. The motion was withdrawn on Thursday as no consensus was reached on this controversial topic.

Several countries in the Global South have called for “no use” of solar radiation modification, and this is a position we support. Human-caused climate change is already a planetary-scale experiment – ​​we don’t need another experiment.

In some circles, solar geoengineering is increasingly popular as a solution to the climate crisis. However, research shows the potential risks posed by this technology, such as:

Loss of biodiversity, especially if technology is stopped suddenly.

Undermining food security, for example by reducing lighting and increasing soil salinity

Human rights violations cross generations, leaving huge risks to future generations
The following are some examples of solar radiation modifications and their potential:

In April 2022, an American startup company launched two weather balloons into the air from Mexico without the approval of authorities. This experiment shows the lack of accountability and transparency in geoengineering.

(wbs)