Carbon Removal and Solar Geoengineering. Potential implications for delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals

This report explores the potential implications which two groups of experimental technologies aimed at managing global climate risk, known as Carbon Removal and Solar Geoengineering, could have for delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The report is based on a review of recent literature, combined with expert analysis and insights provided by a group of international academics and practitioners covering all 17 SDGs. While analysis is focused on implications these technologies may have for delivery of the SDGs in the lead up to 2030, it is also valid and highly relevant for the post-2030 period.There are substantial knowledge gaps around these technologies, and what direct or indirect impacts could be expected if they were ever deployed globally. It is therefore not the purpose of this report to draw firm conclusions regarding their relative pros and cons as part of a portfolio approach to managing climate change risks. Rather, this report seeks to present an initial examination of academic research and expert knowledge to initiate a timely, evidence-based discussion of potential implications (positive or negative) that deployment of these technologies could have for delivery of the SDGs.