SAI: Should We Reflect More Sunlight to Cool the Earth? with Dr. Kelsey Roberts

Could reflecting sunlight help cool the Earth? Stratospheric aerosol injection, or SAI, is a proposed climate intervention that aims to reduce global temperatures by reflecting a small portion of incoming sunlight. Inspired by volcanic eruptions, this approach is being studied through climate and ecosystem models to better understand its potential effects. This episode explores how SAI could influence sea surface temperature, net primary production, ocean chemistry, and marine food webs. It also looks at how scientists use models to evaluate different deployment scenarios, including long-term use and phase-out strategies. Along the way, the conversation considers uncertainty, regional variability, and the role SAI might play within a broader portfolio of climate responses.Support our science communication by joining us on Patreon or sending us a gift on PayPalEpisode Guests: Dr. Kelsey RobertsFind Dr Robert’s publication on the Potential Impacts of Climate Intervention on Marine EcosystemsReview Dr. Robert’s publications on Google ScholarFind more resources on geoengineering at GeoMIPLearn more about Justice and Governance about SRM Technologies at DSGListen to COP30: Green Power for more on global climate policyEpisode 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.