Work

Why we need to explore conflict and competition around solar geoengineering

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: In an increasingly aggressive international political environment, solar geoengineering needs to be reconceptualized – not only as a response to climate change, but as an instrument of power. This conceptualization means going beyond focusing on cooperative scenarios in which the technology is used to effectively reduce temperature rise while minimizing potential side effects. As scholars of international relations, we see a need for more interdisciplinary engagement with solar geoengineering scenarios that explicitly feature political conflict and competition. By anticipating and exploring these, we can better contribute to informing governance arrangements that might be able to prevent situations that undermine international political stability and efforts to address climate change .

Source: PLOS Climate

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pclm.0000869

Authors: Ina Möller, Danielle N. Young

Institutions: Wageningen University & Research, University of Leeds

Language: English

Topic: Climate Change and Geoengineering

Subfield: Global and Planetary Change

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,496