Ongoing climate change has inspired a range of technologies to ease its effects. Some ideas aim to remove CO2 directly from the air, while others look at ways to reflect sunlight or modify atmospheric processes. Yet these approaches can carry risks and may provoke unintended consequences for the climate system.
UNESCO issued a first formal assessment of climate engineering, noting that deliberate attempts to alter the Earth’s climate to curb warming could be ineffective if they distract governments and companies from the essential work of cutting emissions. The clear message: deep, sustained reductions in greenhouse gas emissions remain the true solution.
In its report on geoengineering, published at the outset of COP28 in the United Arab Emirates, UNESCO warns that these techniques come with unintended effects and should be carefully regulated on moral and practical grounds.
Aerosol dispersion diagram to prevent sun glare
The study argues that these technologies may appeal as a quick fix instead of tackling the root cause, and it cautions authorities and businesses not to sideline efforts to reduce fossil fuel use.
Spreading particles into the atmosphere
Among the main branches of climate engineering, Solar Radiation Management stands out. It involves the deliberate release of particles to reflect sunlight and a subsequent reduction of atmospheric carbon dioxide, a key contributor to the greenhouse effect.
Experts highlight the need to weigh all facets of geoengineering, including who benefits and who bears the risks. Some observers compare it to introducing a drug to cure one problem while smoking heavily every day, underscoring the potential mismatch between promise and reality.
Even with concerns about weakening climate action, these technologies are viewed by some as one of the more reliable options to curb global warming. They emphasize a broader debate about reducing dependence on fossil fuels and ensuring fair governance as part of an evolving climate strategy.
Aerial CO2 capture station
The report stresses that moving forward will require international cooperation among nations with differing economic priorities. It notes that the cross-border nature of aerosol dispersion could create tensions between countries and complicate climate policy.
Argentinian climatologist Inés Camilloni, a coauthor of the study, notes that poorer nations may face barriers in accessing certain technologies, which could widen global inequalities. She also cautions about environmental impacts from the large-scale use of aircraft to distribute aerosols, urging careful consideration of potential side effects.
Aerosol injection system into the atmosphere to reduce solar glare
UNESCO advocates a more integrated global approach to geoengineering, aiming to keep climate action aligned with pollution reduction measures adopted at the international level. This strategy seeks to prevent fragmentation and maintain momentum in the fight against the climate emergency.
Based on the scientific data available today, geoengineering techniques cannot be expected to make a meaningful contribution toward meeting climate targets. The report highlights significant uncertainties and potential risks that should not be ignored.
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Resolution and governance considerations remain essential for any research or deployment path in this area, with a focus on transparency, equity, and long-term planetary stewardship. The discourse also calls for robust monitoring, independent evaluation, and clear thresholds for action to prevent unforeseen harm.