Solar Radiation Management (SRM)

Solar Radiation Management (SRM) is a climate engineering approach aimed at reflecting a small percentage of the sun's light and heat back into space to reduce global temperatures. This innovative technology proposes various methods, such as the dispersal of reflective aerosols in the stratosphere, the enhancement of cloud reflectivity, and the deployment of reflective materials on land or ocean surfaces.

SRM does not address the root causes of climate change, such as greenhouse gas emissions, but it offers a potential stopgap solution to mitigate some immediate impacts of global warming. By controlling the amount of solar energy that reaches the Earth, SRM could potentially help stabilize climate patterns and reduce the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, providing a critical window for more sustainable and long-term solutions to take effect.

Despite its promise, SRM is still in the experimental stage and poses significant ethical, environmental, and geopolitical challenges. The potential side effects, uncertainty around regional impacts, and questions about global governance make thorough research and international cooperation essential before any large-scale implementation can be considered.