The Degrees Initiative

Who we are

The Degrees Initiative is a UK-based NGO that strengthens the capacity of the Global South to evaluate solar radiation modification (SRM), a controversial proposal for reducing some impacts of climate change by reflecting sunlight away from the Earth. Degrees is neutral on whether SRM should ever be used, but we believe that Global South should be empowered to conduct their own research and to play a central role in SRM discussions. The initiative has been working in different forms for over a decade, and our work receives worldwide coverage and widespread acclaim.

Our culture and values

Our Vision

We envision a future with experts from every region of the Global South playing a central role in the evaluation and governance of SRM.

Our Mission

We are changing the global environment in which SRM is evaluated, ensuring informed and confident representation from the Global South.

Our Values

Neutrality

We are neutral on SRM and will neither promote nor oppose it.

Commitment to mitigation

We believe that SRM should only be considered as a potential temporary supplement to reductions of greenhouse gas emissions, which must remain the primary focus of climate policy.

Inclusiveness

Degrees has been working for over a decade to ensure a more inclusive global conversation around SRM. We believe that such a conversation is essential if the world is to make informed and equitable decisions about SRM.

Academic excellence

We aim to expand the discussion of SRM’s potential risks and benefits, taking account of science, social science and governance. We will work to ensure that evaluation of SRM is informed by the best available evidence, and that it is analysed in the context, with impacts and implications compared both to today’s climate and to a warmed world.