Wealthy backers undeterred by failed geoengineering test

Despite a failed attempt to block sunlight, wealthy donors plan to continue funding solar geoengineering research to combat global warming.

Corbin Hiar and Blanca Begert report for POLITICO.

In short:

• Wealthy philanthropists intend to fund future solar geoengineering experiments despite a failed attempt by the University of Washington.
• The Alameda, California experiment was halted due to public backlash, but donors remain committed to advancing research in this controversial field.
• Critics argue geoengineering could impede efforts to reduce climate pollution, though funders emphasize its importance in climate science.

Key quote:

“We remain firmly committed to advancing transparent, equitable, and science-based approaches to understand and potentially mitigate climate risks.”

— Greg De Temmerman, chief science and programs officer, Quadrature Climate Foundation

Why this matters:

Continued funding for geoengineering research illustrates the urgency of addressing climate change but raises concerns about unintended environmental consequences and public opposition