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https://www.degrees.ngo/two-new-mexico-teams-explore-srm-heatwaves-and-biodiversity-loss/ *05 March 2024* Degrees-funded scientists Julián Velasco and Graciela Raga from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico. Photo Credit: the Degrees Initiative. The Degrees Initiative is delighted to announce funding today for the first two solar radiation modification (SRM) research teams based in Mexico. Led by Dr Graciela Lucia Binimelis de Raga <https://www.degrees.ngo/degrees-modelling-fund/the-projects/mexico-2024-raga/> and Dr Julián A. Velasco <https://www.degrees.ngo/degrees-modelling-fund/the-projects/mexico-2024-vinasco/> from the Institute for Atmospheric Sciences and Climate Change at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), the teams will model how climate change and SRM might impact heatwaves and biodiversity, respectively, across Mexico and Central America. Mexico is on the frontlines of climate change, already experiencing temperature increases above the global average over the last 100 years. Last year, Mexico’s heatwaves broke records, resulting in over 200 deaths, while changes in climate are also expected to have a major impact on the region’s rich biodiversity. By modelling the potential impacts of SRM and climate change, these scientists will contribute to an evidence base that policy makers in Mexico and Central America can use to make informed decisions about reducing climate risks. This is research conducted by Latin Amercian scientists working at a Mexican University, who will communicate their findings openly to key stakeholders through peer-reviewed academic publications. Last year, Mexico announced an intention to ban outdoor solar geoengineering activities after an American start-up company attempted a small-scale SRM balloon test on Mexican territory. Unlike that controversial small-scale for-profit ‘deployment’, the two new Degrees-funded scientific teams will conduct responsible computer-based modelling research on the potential effects of SRM on climate change, heatwaves, and biodiversity. This supports Degrees’ central mission – while we take no position on whether SRM should ever be used, we want developing countries to have the capacity to do their own research and to have an informed role in any future governance discussions and decisions on its use or non-use. Find out more about the new teams and projects here <https://www.degrees.ngo/degrees-modelling-fund/the-projects/>. *Source: The Degrees Initiative* -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "geoengineering" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to [email protected]. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/geoengineering/CAHJsh9-qy42NVaUmWXV9HcWunC835QxV5cedP69R_%2BCJNaTsWA%40mail.gmail.com.
