As Climate Crisis Deepens, GOP Pushes Bill to Ban ‘Geoengineering’ Solutions

A Republican legislator in Arizona has proposed a bill banning geoengineering practices in the state, adding to a trend of similar legislation nationwide fueled by conspiracy theories. Geoengineering refers to deliberate efforts to alter the atmosphere, often seen as a potential response to the escalating impacts of climate change.

This area of research is still largely theoretical, with limited real-world applications and pushback from some local communities. Currently, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) oversees monitoring activities related to geoengineering by foreign nations and private ventures.

The debate among scientists over geoengineering is intense. Some advocate for its potential as a tool against anthropogenic environmental damage, while others warn it could exacerbate climate issues. Janice Lachance, CEO of the American Geophysical Union, emphasized the organization’s neutral stance, advocating instead for transparent research practices and community involvement.

“We are not pro or con. We just think that, if you are going to do this, it needs to be done transparently,” she noted. AGU has called for increased oversight and community engagement in geoengineering research, stressing the need for clarity regarding funding and potential risks.

Efforts in this field often fall under the umbrella of “climate intervention.” One significant area of investigation is solar radiation modification, which aims to reflect sunlight to lower surface temperatures. Last year, Tennessee passed a similar ban on geoengineering, influenced by unfounded conspiracy theories about “chemtrails” linked to air travel.

In Arizona, House Bill 2056, introduced by freshman GOP member Lisa Fink, seeks to prohibit various geoengineering techniques, including cloud seeding and stratospheric aerosol dispersion. Fink mentioned that the bill was motivated by concerns raised by a constituent, mirroring actions taken in other states.

If enacted, the legislation would prevent virtually all forms of geoengineering activity by government agencies, research institutions, and private organizations. Offenders could face hefty fines and criminal charges. Furthermore, the bill empowers law enforcement to investigate any allegations of excessive electromagnetic radiation potentially linked to human activities.

The formal GOP platform, however, makes scant reference to climate change or environmental issues, reflecting a broader reluctance among Arizona Republicans to acknowledge these challenges. Last year, Senate Republicans pushed for measures to limit state spending on climate change initiatives, branding them as radical.

Lachance voiced concerns that the proposed legislation could hinder legitimate scientific inquiry, stating, “There are incredibly talented scientists in the state of Arizona. Do you want them to stop all their work on this?” She underscored that prohibiting geoengineering in Arizona would not mitigate activities or research occurring in other states, highlighting the need for comprehensive dialogue on the matter.

As the bill progresses, it has fallen into the hands of the House Committee on Regulatory Oversight. Debate continues over the future of geoengineering, with proponents like Lachance advocating for ethical frameworks to guide research while cautioning against the growing influence of conspiracy theories in shaping policy.