By Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-03-08 10:25:46
African countries have taken a stand against solar geoengineering, a controversial method of combating climate change by reflecting sunlight back to outer space. This approach, known as solar radiation modification, involves techniques such as releasing sulphur dioxide to block the sun’s rays or removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. While some see geoengineering as a way to slow down global warming, critics warn of potential catastrophic consequences if these technologies fail.
At the recent UN Environmental Assembly in Nairobi, Switzerland proposed a resolution to relax the de facto moratorium on solar geoengineering established in 2010. However, African countries, with concerns about potential impacts on the continent, led the opposition against the Swiss proposal. Despite initial support from countries like Senegal, the resolution was ultimately withdrawn by the Swiss delegation, leaving the moratorium in place.
Supporters of geoengineering argue for the need to consider more drastic solutions as the climate crisis worsens. With global temperatures exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and new temperature records being broken, policymakers are exploring various techniques, including marine cloud brightening and ocean fertilization. These methods aim to reflect more sunlight and sequester carbon in the oceans, but their full effects and potential side effects are not yet fully understood.
African ministers have previously called for global governance mechanisms to prevent the deployment of solar radiation management. They warn that even if these technologies are only used in the northern hemisphere, they could disrupt weather patterns and have catastrophic effects on Africa’s water availability and food production. This concern was echoed by organizations like Hands Off Mother Earth Africa, who applauded Africa’s leadership in opposing geoengineering at the UN Environmental Assembly.
While some countries, including the United States, supported Africa’s position in Nairobi, skeptics question their motivations. Some suspect that opposition to UN oversight of geoengineering governance may be driving these countries’ stance, rather than genuine concern over the technology itself. Meanwhile, billionaires like Bill Gates have invested in ventures exploring radical solutions, indicating that the debate over geoengineering is far from settled.
Overall, African countries have taken a strong stance against solar geoengineering at the UN Environmental Assembly. They have raised concerns about the potential risks and impacts of these technologies, calling for careful evaluation and international oversight before any further developments take place. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, the debate over geoengineering and its implications on the environment and society continues.
