Solar Radiation Modification (SRM) was discussed as part of a growing suite of geoengineering technologies designed to reflect sunlight back into space in order to lessen the impacts of climate change. While geoengineering was not presented as a substitute for cutting greenhouse gas emissions, it was considered as a potential complement to broader efforts to mitigate the effects of global warming beyond 1.5°C.
For Canada, proactively investing in SRM research was framed as a strategically significant move—not only to address climate risks, but also to engage with implications for Arctic sovereignty and energy security. Advances in the technology suggested that Canada might soon need to decide whether to invest in the research and expertise necessary to help shape global rules for SRM development. Without early action, some experts warned that Canada could risk being sidelined in future international decisions, compromising both energy security and the fragile ecosystems of a warming Arctic.
SRM technologies remained in early stages of development and had faced notable public skepticism. Some initiatives had already been shut down due to public opposition, while others had earned enough trust to proceed to experimental phases, increasing the feasibility of future deployment.
This webinar explored key questions: Should Canada act now to build SRM research capacity and leadership? How could the country foster local expertise and global partnerships to ensure responsible governance of solar geoengineering? Watch this recording to hear from experts on these urgent and complex issues.
