EU launches €35 million program to monitor unauthorized sun-blocking experiments

The European Union, via its Horizon Europe research arm, issued a €35 million tender aimed at identifying and tracking unauthorized attempts to alter the atmosphere by reducing sunlight. The funding will support projects that develop methods for detecting solar radiation modification, a controversial geoengineering approach that could be used to cool the planet if temperatures reach critical thresholds. The decision comes amid warnings that global warming may soon exceed the 1.5 °C limit, intensifying extreme weather events worldwide.

EU officials highlighted the urgency of preventing unsanctioned experiments that could have unforeseen consequences. The call seeks to foster coordination among scientists and policymakers to ensure any climate-intervention techniques are transparent and safe. This initiative adds to the EU’s broader climate strategy addressing wildfires, droughts, hurricanes and severe floods.