CINCINNATI (WKRC) – Scientists are exploring unconventional methods to address global warming, with a new proposal suggesting the use of diamond dust to cool the Earth.
According to a report published in Geophysical Research Letters, the plan would involve dispersing approximately 5 million tons of diamond dust into the stratosphere annually, potentially reducing global temperatures by up to 1.6 degrees Celsius.
While this temperature change may seem modest, researchers hope it could mitigate the most severe consequences of global warming. Geoengineering, the concept of manipulating the Earth’s climate, is not new. Previous discussions have included injecting sulfur and other chemicals into the atmosphere to create a sun-blocking layer over Antarctica, according to BGR.
However, these “artificial sulfur injections” pose significant risks, such as acid rain and further disruption of weather and climate patterns.
To assess the potential of diamond dust as a solution, researchers developed a 3D climate model to analyze various aerosol compositions. They found that diamond dust can be particularly effective due to its slow atmospheric settling, which provides a prolonged cooling effect. Unlike other aerosols that may clump and trap heat, diamond dust avoids exacerbating climate change scenarios.
Despite the promise of this approach, proving its effectiveness remains a challenge. Some experts argued that halting climate change entirely may be impossible. Additionally, the financial implications are substantial, with researchers estimating the cost at around $200 trillion over the remainder of the century.
Nevertheless, they suggest it could be a more effective and safer alternative to sulfuric acid.
There are also some scientists who have argued against this plan for other reasons. Some said that any attempt at geoengineering could lead to “unforeseen consequences of large-scale implementation,” while also thinking that it would take away both researchers and funding from reducing carbon emissions and climate impacts, according to Science.