Overview
- Peer-reviewed research published November 4 in Environmental Research Letters modeled stratospheric aerosol injection across leading growing zones in Western Europe, South America, and West Africa.
- SAI lowered surface temperatures in simulations yet did not consistently preserve the combined temperature, rainfall, and humidity conditions required for wine grapes, coffee, and cacao.
- Only six of 18 regions showed reliable improvement versus a scenario without SAI, indicating highly uneven regional outcomes.
- Unpredictable rainfall and humidity drove flood, pest, and disease risks that undercut any cooling benefits, with cacao highlighted as especially susceptible, according to co-author Dr. Ariel Morrison.
- Authors conclude SAI could offer temporary regional relief but is not a fix, urging locally tailored adaptation, resilient farming practices, and international cooperation.