Macroecological approaches to evaluate biodiversity risks under solar geoengineering
Project summary
A deeper understanding of how species and communities respond to climate change is essential for developing strategies to reverse current trends in biodiversity loss. Macroecological modeling frameworks are helpful tools for elucidating how biodiversity is changing in response to multiple human stressors, including climate change. These frameworks are also instrumental for helping policymakers evaluate the effectiveness of climate policies on biodiversity, including mitigation strategies and unconventional scenarios as solar radiation modification (SRM). In this project, we will develop a macroecological framework to assess the potential risks of SRM strategies to the geographical gradients of multiple facets of biodiversity worldwide. Specifically, we will develop probabilistic risk metrics to evaluate whether SRM deployment would be more beneficial or detrimental to biodiversity, particularly in critical hotspots such as Amazonia or the Andes. Our project will help to clarify the implications of implementing technological solutions to address climate change and facilitate more effective communication of impacts and risks.
