UK scientists to try dimming the Sun

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British scientists are set to begin small-scale outdoor experiments to explore geoengineering techniques aimed at reducing global warming. Backed by a £50 million government fund managed by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA), the project will test methods such as releasing reflective particles into the atmosphere, spraying seawater to brighten clouds, and thinning cirrus clouds that trap heat. These approaches aim to reflect more sunlight away from Earth, temporarily cooling the planet’s surface.

Professor Mark Symes, ARIA’s programme director, emphasized that while cutting fossil fuel emissions remains essential, current progress is too slow to avoid dangerous climate tipping points like Arctic ice melt and rainforest loss. Geoengineering could provide a way to “buy time to decarbonise” by safely lowering temperatures in the short term. The project will avoid toxic substances, conduct environmental impact assessments, and consult local communities before any outdoor trials.

Though seen as a relatively low-cost way to cool the Earth, critics warn geoengineering could disrupt weather patterns and reduce urgency to cut emissions. Further details on the experiments are expected soon.