Field experiments on solar geoengineering: report of a workshop exploring a representative research portfolio

Area of Science:

• Climate Science
• Geoengineering Research
• Environmental Policy

Background:

• Solar radiation management (SRM) is a proposed climate intervention strategy.
• Assessing the feasibility and risks of SRM field research is crucial.
• Previous research has not systematically cataloged potential SRM experiments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize a portfolio of proposed field experiments for solar radiation management (SRM).
• To support analysis of SRM research, including its merits, risks, and governance.
• To identify observational needs for evaluating SRM technologies.

Main Methods:

• Compilation and critical review of SRM field experiment proposals from leading researchers.
• Categorization of proposals into marine cloud brightening, stratospheric aerosols, and cirrus cloud manipulation.
• Analysis of experimental variables including scale, risk, and radiative forcing.

Main Results:

• A portfolio of diverse SRM field experiment proposals was developed.
• Key research areas include marine cloud brightening, stratospheric aerosols, and cirrus cloud manipulation.
• Analysis identified potential gaps, biases, and cross-cutting considerations in SRM research.

Conclusions:

• A systematic research program for solar radiation management requires careful planning and consideration of risks.
• Further development of governance mechanisms and observational strategies is necessary.
• The summarized portfolio provides a foundation for future SRM research initiatives.