UK eyes controversial sunlight-dimming project to tackle global warming, scientists remain cautious
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In a bold and controversial move, the UK government is reportedly set to approve a series of experiments aimed at dimming sunlight as a temporary solution to combat global warming.
The initiative, backed by a £50 million (approximately ₹567 crore) fund, is part of a larger research programme exploring solar geoengineering — the deliberate modification of Earth's atmosphere to reflect sunlight and cool the planet.
The effort is being led by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (Aria), which is overseeing several small-scale trials. Among the proposed experiments are methods like releasing fine particles into the stratosphere to bounce sunlight back into space and a marine cloud brightening technique, where sea-salt particles are sprayed into the atmosphere to increase the reflectivity of low-lying clouds.
Proponents argue that these interventions, if proven safe and effective, could buy valuable time by temporarily lowering surface temperatures and slowing down the accelerating climate crisis. "The uncomfortable truth is that our current warming trajectory makes a number of tipping points distinctly possible over the next century," said Professor Mark Symes, programme director at Aria. He stressed that urgent action is needed to prevent irreversible climate damage.
However, the initiative has triggered concern within the scientific community.
Many experts warn that such geoengineering approaches may lead to unforeseen environmental consequences. Critics also worry that reliance on temporary fixes like these could divert focus from the most crucial task — drastically reducing global carbon emissions and phasing out fossil fuels.
To address safety and ethical concerns, Aria has laid out strict guidelines for its experiments, including limits on duration, reversibility, and environmental safety. "We won't be funding the release of any toxic substances into the environment," added Symes.
Beyond outdoor tests, the programme will also support climate modelling, indoor experiments, public opinion studies, and enhanced monitoring of Earth’s climate systems.
