UK scientists to launch outdoor geoengineering experiments

UK scientists are to launch outdoor geoengineering experiments as part of a £50m government-funded program.

The experiments will be small-scale and rigorously assessed, according to Advanced Research and Invention Agency (Aria), the UK government agency backing the plan, and will provide “critical” data needed to assess the potential of the technology. The program, along with another £11m project, will make the UK one of the biggest funders of geoengineering research in the world.

Geoengineering is controversial and some previous planned outdoor experiments have been cancelled after strong opposition. Most geoengineering proposals aim to block sunlight reaching the Earth’s surface, for example by launching clouds of reflective particles into the atmosphere or using seawater sprays to make clouds brighter.

If successful, this could temporarily reduce surface temperatures and the harm the climate crisis is causing, giving more time for the deep cuts in global carbon emissions needed. Given the failure of the world to stop emissions rising to date, and the recent run of record hot years, backers of solar geoengineering say researching the issue is vital in case an emergency brake is needed.