Governing solar geoengineering research as it leaves the laboratory

Area of Science:

• Climate Science
• Environmental Policy
• Geoengineering Governance

Background:

• Solar radiation management (SRM) research faces controversy regarding its progression beyond laboratory settings.
• Concerns about risks and ethical implications have led to calls for formalized research governance, including international agreements, before field experiments proceed.
• The concept of 'governance before research' is a key point of discussion in geoengineering policy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To pragmatically analyze the implications and practicalities of demands for 'governance before research' in solar radiation management.
• To evaluate the effectiveness and potential drawbacks of a moratorium on SRM field experiments.
• To propose alternative steps for establishing robust governance in the absence of formal international agreements.

Main Methods:

• Policy analysis of 'governance before research' demands.
• Assessment of the feasibility and likely impact of a moratorium on solar radiation management experiments.
• Identification of practical measures for implementing governance through researcher and funder initiatives.

Main Results:

• A moratorium on solar radiation management field experiments is likely to be ineffective and counterproductive.
• Imposing a moratorium is improbable, and even if implemented, it would likely have mixed results in addressing risks.
• Such a ban could hinder safe research and delay the development of effective governance through practical experience.

Conclusions:

• While 'governance before research' is a desirable objective, a moratorium is not the optimal strategy to achieve it.
• Alternative approaches, emphasizing the roles of researchers and research funders, are crucial for developing and implementing good governance practices.
• Progress in solar radiation management governance can be made through proactive measures by the research community, even without international agreements or legislation.