MCB: Can Brighter Clouds Cool the Planet? with Dr. Jessica Wan

Can brighter clouds cool Earth? Marine cloud brightening (MCB) is a proposed solar radiation modification strategy that could reflect sunlight, cool ocean regions, and potentially reduce dangerous heat. But can it actually work at scale, and what risks might come with it? In this episode, climate scientist Dr. Jessica Wan explains how MCB works, why researchers are studying sea salt aerosols and marine stratocumulus clouds, and what climate models reveal about unintended effects on weather, heatwaves, rainfall, and global circulation. The conversation explores geoengineering, climate intervention, El Niño, regional cooling, governance, and the major uncertainties surrounding marine cloud brightening as a response to climate change.Support our science communication by joining us on Patreon or sending us a gift on PayPalEpisode Guests: Dr. Jessica WanVisit Dr. Wan’s WebsiteReview Dr. Wan’s publications on Google ScholarConnect with Dr. Wan on LinkedInFind Dr. Wan’s articles on MCB in a warmer world and MCB and El NiñoLearn more about Justice and Governance about SRM Technologies at DSGEpisode Transcript  and more information on the Pine Forest Media websiteFollow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmediaHosted, produced, and edited by Clark Marchese Cover art by Jomiro EmingTheme music by Nela RuizFind some more Pine Forest Media podcasts belowListen to Plastic Podcast on Spotify or Apple PodcastsListen to South Pole on Spotify or Apple PodcastsListen to Something in the Water on Spotify or Apple Podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.