Despite a failed attempt to block sunlight, wealthy donors plan to continue funding solar geoengineering research to combat global warming.
Corbin Hiar and Blanca Begert report for POLITICO.
In short:
- Wealthy philanthropists intend to fund future solar geoengineering experiments despite a failed attempt by the University of Washington.
- The Alameda, California experiment was halted due to public backlash, but donors remain committed to advancing research in this controversial field.
- Critics argue geoengineering could impede efforts to reduce climate pollution, though funders emphasize its importance in climate science.
Key quote:
“We remain firmly committed to advancing transparent, equitable, and science-based approaches to understand and potentially mitigate climate risks.”
— Greg De Temmerman, chief science and programs officer, Quadrature Climate Foundation
Why this matters:
Continued funding for geoengineering research illustrates the urgency of addressing climate change but raises concerns about unintended environmental consequences and public opposition
