Impact of Solar Radiation Management on Andean glacier-wide surface mass balance

Abstract

Solar Radiation Management (SRM) is a climate intervention strategy aimed at mitigating global warming by reducing incoming solar radiation. We investigate the potential influence of SRM on Andean glacier-wide surface mass balance, as glaciers are crucial for downstream ecological functions along the west coast of South America. We numerically simulate the surface mass balance response of thousands of glaciers to SRM and other climate change scenarios throughout the 21st century. Results indicate Pan-Andean negative mass balance, irrespective of the scenario or glacier-climate regimes. However, SRM tends to modify interannual variability and temperature sensitivity in several regions. Our findings also suggest that if SRM had been implemented in the late 1980’s, it would have been effective in avoiding the negative trajectory seen today. The Andes feature nearly all mountain hydroclimatic regimes, representing a globally relevant example of SRM impacts. These findings emphasize the urgency of drastic emissions reduction.