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.

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Episode Guests: Dr. Kelsey Roberts

Find Dr Robert’s publication on the Potential Impacts of Climate Intervention on Marine Ecosystems

Review Dr. Robert’s publications on Google Scholar

Find more resources on geoengineering at GeoMIP

Learn more about Justice and Governance about SRM Technologies at DSG

Listen to COP30: Green Power for more on global climate policy

Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media website

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Hosted, produced, and edited by Clark Marchese 

Cover art by Jomiro Eming

Theme music by Nela Ruiz

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