Why the for-profit race into solar geoengineering is bad for science and public trust

The recent announcement that Stardust, an American-Israeli company, has raised $60 million to develop its solar geoengineering technology marks a significant milestone for the startup (F1, F2). However, this influx of for-profit investment has raised concerns about its potential negative impact on scientific integrity and public trust in geoengineering efforts (A1). Critics argue that the commercialization of such technologies could prioritize financial interests over rigorous scientific research and transparency. This dynamic may undermine public confidence in geoengineering as a viable and ethically managed approach to addressing climate change. The debate highlights the tension between innovation driven by private funding and the need for open, accountable scientific processes. As solar geoengineering continues to attract attention, maintaining trust and integrity remains a critical challenge for the field.