Solar geo-engineering and its definition, uses in modern sustainable living and risks
This concept refers to the idea of using certain technologies to counteract climate change by reflecting more sunlight from the Earth's surface.
As scientists agree that global greenhouse gas emissions need to be cut as soon as possible to prevent dangerous climate change, some researchers are calling for further studies on the use of geoengineering techniques. These include the controversial use of solar geoengineering.
This concept refers to the idea of using certain technologies to counteract climate change by reflecting more sunlight from the Earth's surface.
Aerosol injection
One of the most talked-about geoengineering techniques is the spraying of aerosols into the stratosphere. This method could cool the planet in the same way that a volcanic eruption would do.
This could happen by sending a balloon or plane into the stratosphere. He said that the amount of cooling that would be produced by this technique could be large.
Marine cloud brightening
Another potential solar geoengineering technique that's talked about is marine cloud brightening, which involves spraying saltwater particles into the clouds. Once airborne, the salt particles could condense water vapor and form clouds. As more water droplets form, the clouds would become brighter and larger.
High-albedo crops and buildings
Another proposed technique that's starting to catch on is the idea of increasing buildings' albedo, which is how much sunlight they reflect. This would involve painting the walls and roofs white.
Cloud thinning
Another less-studied geoengineering technique that's been suggested is the removal of cirrus clouds from the atmosphere. This could reduce the effects of sunlight on the planet.
These thin and wispy clouds, which are made of ice crystals, are known as cirrus clouds. Although they reflect some sunlight, they also absorb a large amount of radiation to keep the planet warm.
Ocean mirror
Another less-studied geoengineering technique that's been suggested is the use of an ocean mirror. In theory, this could involve sending a fleet of ships to the ocean's surface and creating millions of microbubbles.
The ocean's surface would become covered in sea foam, which would reflect away sunlight and cool the planet. Although this technique could potentially have a cooling effect, it could also decrease the amount of sunlight that reaches the ocean's surface, which could negatively affect marine ecosystems.
Solar geo-engineering challenges
Despite the positive effects of geoengineering on climate change, some researchers and campaigners still believe that the potential risks associated with this technology are still unknown.
They also fear that geoengineering could cause the world to experience environmental and societal issues that are worse than climate change.
Due to its global implications, international governance is needed to support the development of this technology.
