War game simulates global response to solar radiation modification, revealing geopolitical challenges

Simulating Climate Intervention

A war game simulation, titled "Exploring Geopolitical Tipping Points and Climate Cooling Strategies," was conducted in London to assess the global response to solar radiation modification technologies. Climate researcher Colleen Golja participated in the event, which aimed to prevent an uncontrolled global race to develop these planet-cooling technologies.

Participants and Setup

The simulation gathered a diverse group of participants, including foreign-relations experts, scientists, military personnel, and former government officials, at Queen Mary University of London. They represented various entities such as national governments, climate NGOs, indigenous groups, and tech companies, with Golja providing technical advice.

Stress-Testing Solar Geoengineering

The exercise stress-tested the world's potential response to solar radiation modification, which involves reflecting sunlight away from Earth, for example, by spraying sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. While the cooling effect is accepted, mimicking large volcanic eruptions, the geopolitical and environmental fallout remains uncertain.

Potential Risks and Unequal Impacts

Models predict that deploying solar geoengineering could lead to negative consequences in certain regions, such as drying in sub-Saharan Africa and more intense tropical storms in the Atlantic. Additionally, the cooling effect would only last as long as the intervention continues, with a risk of rapid temperature rebound and unpredictable effects if stopped.