Speaker: Daniele Visioni, Cornell University
Moderator: Pietro Andreoni, CMCC

Abstract: Past explosive volcanic eruptions have shown that large SO2 injections in the stratosphere have a temporary cooling effect on our planet temperatures. This has led some to consider whether artificial injections of sulfate (Stratospheric Aerosols Intervention, SAI) could temporarily ameliorate some of the effects of climate change, as a supplement to emission reduction.

Numerous climate models have analyzed the potential impacts of SAI: based on current international multi-model comparisons as part of the Geoengineering Model Intercomparison Project (GeoMIP), and large ensembles of simulations we produced with the Community Earth System Model, I will describe broad areas of agreement but also highlight large inter-model differences and shortcomings from the simulation of the aerosol cloud downstream to regional climate changes, as well as discuss the problems and some potential solutions with fully mapping the potential space of different SAI applications.

Building on this, I will share some personal insights about areas where future research should be headed, as the topic of Climate Intervention gains relevance internationally, especially drawing on recent discussions held at the Sixth Session of the United Nation Environmental Agency held in February 2024 and through the World Climate Research Programme Lighthouse Activity on Climate Intervention Research. It is clear that the basis for any potential future agreement around this topic can’t just include improved modeling tools and better observational capabilities, but also a wide range of collaborations across disciplines both in the natural and social realms and a strong commitment to international cooperation.

The event will be held online and in presence at CMCC Milan Offices.

Register here