UK Launches £10 Million Study Into Blocking Sunlight to Combat Climate Change

The United Kingdom has launched a £10 million research initiative to explore the potential risks and impacts of solar radiation modification (SRM) as a possible tool in the global fight against climate change. The government-funded study will be led by the National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS) and the University of Cambridge, and is being backed by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

SRM refers to a controversial set of geoengineering techniques that aim to reflect a portion of sunlight back into space, potentially cooling the Earth’s surface. These include methods such as stratospheric aerosol injection, where particles are released into the upper atmosphere to mimic the cooling effect of volcanic eruptions.

According to the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, the study will focus on better understanding the science, safety, and geopolitical implications of such interventions, particularly in scenarios where global warming exceeds 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

“This research is not about deploying these technologies, but understanding them,” said a spokesperson for UKRI. “It’s essential we are equipped with robust scientific evidence to inform future policy, should these options ever be considered.”

However, the announcement has drawn sharp criticism from climate skeptics and political figures abroad. In the United States, Vice President JD Vance denounced what he called “climate alarmism,” labeling the UK’s effort as an example of “extremist environmental policy.” Speaking at an energy summit in Texas, Vance said Western leaders are “paralyzed by fear” and called for a more balanced, pragmatic approach to climate and development.

“We commend countries like India for putting people first and rejecting the doomsday rhetoric coming out of Western capitals,” Vance said.

Environmental groups in the UK have also expressed concerns, warning that SRM could carry unknown environmental risks and might distract from urgent efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Critics argue that such technologies could alter weather patterns, impact ecosystems, and raise complex ethical and governance questions.

Despite the controversy, interest in SRM research is growing globally, as scientists grapple with worst-case climate scenarios and limited progress on emission reductions. The UK’s study marks one of the most comprehensive national efforts to assess the viability of solar geoengineering to date.

The results of the study are expected to be published over the next two years.