Silicon Valley Elites Want to Block the Sun. Not Everyone’s On Board
Oct 30, 2024
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Sophie Alexander, a Bloomberg reporter specializing in billionaires and philanthropy, dives into the contentious world of solar radiation modification. She explores how Silicon Valley elites are investing heavily in this controversial technology to potentially cool the planet by blocking sunlight. The conversation highlights the ethical dilemmas, urgent need for regulatory oversight, and warnings from researchers about the unintended consequences. Alexander also discusses the importance of including diverse voices in the dialogue, particularly from communities most impacted by climate change.
Silicon Valley's growing investment in solar radiation modification reflects a belief in technological solutions to climate change, despite ethical concerns.
The need for inclusive research practices and regulatory oversight is crucial to prevent potential environmental and social disruptions from geoengineering efforts.
Deep dives
Understanding Solar Radiation Modification
Solar radiation modification (SRM) is a geoengineering concept aimed at cooling the planet by blocking sunlight, primarily through methods such as spraying sulfates into the stratosphere. This idea draws inspiration from the natural cooling effects observed after significant volcanic eruptions, which inject large amounts of sulfate particles into the atmosphere. Researchers began to revisit this concept in the late 1990s after some studies indicated its potential effectiveness. Although controversial and under debate, SRM has recently garnered increased interest from philanthropies and technology sectors as governments struggle to combat climate change.
The Influence of Silicon Valley
Much of the skyrocketing funding for SRM research is originating from Silicon Valley, where the tech industry’s innovative spirit aligns with the ambitious nature of geoengineering projects. Proponents argue that innovative solutions are essential as traditional methods to curb greenhouse gas emissions have been inadequate. However, this exuberance is met with criticism; many fear that the tech community's impulsive approach might lead to unforeseen consequences. For instance, companies like Make Sunsets, which has undertaken controversial experiments, exemplify the potential risks of a 'move fast and break things' mentality in geoengineering.
Regulatory and Ethical Challenges
The push for SRM technologies raises significant regulatory and ethical concerns, especially regarding the governance of such powerful interventions in Earth's climate system. Critics warn that the lack of structured oversight could lead to irresponsible experimentation that might disrupt ecosystems or communities. Past incidents, such as an unconsulted SRM research project affecting indigenous groups in the Arctic, demonstrate the risks of proceeding without addressing public concerns. With the global climate stakes so high, experts urge for inclusive research practices and clear governance frameworks to ensure that vulnerable populations are protected in any geoengineering initiatives.
It sounds like science fiction, but it’s real: Venture capitalists, startup founders, and Silicon Valley elites are pouring money into a controversial technology called solar radiation modification that could cool the planet by blocking the sun.
Today on the show, host Sarah Holder talks to Bloomberg reporter Sophie Alexander about the international coordination needed for something like this to work, and why funding for it is ramping up even as researchers express concerns about the possible consequences.
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