is a measure of the reflectivity of a surface, representing the fraction of incoming solar radiation that is reflected back into space. It is a unitless value ranging from 0 to 1, where 0 indicates a "perfect absorber" that reflects no light, and 1 indicates a "perfect reflector" that absorbs no light. Key Surface Albedo Values
The risks are enormous: It does not remove CO2 (so ocean acidification continues), it could disrupt monsoons (threatening agriculture for billions), and if the system ever stopped, "termination shock" would cause catastrophic rapid warming. Albedo
Low Albedo Surfaces: The open ocean (0.06) and dense forests (0.15) are highly absorbent. They soak up solar radiation, converting it into heat that warms the surrounding environment. is a measure of the reflectivity of a
The Global Average: Earth’s average planetary albedo is approximately 0.3, meaning our planet reflects about 30% of incoming sunlight. The Ice-Albedo Feedback Loop Climate modeling : Accurate albedo values are necessary
Proposals for Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI) —mimicking volcanic eruptions by spraying sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere to increase planetary albedo—are being studied. Critics warn of unintended consequences: disrupted monsoons, ozone depletion, and the "termination shock" if the program ever stops (warming would return instantly at double speed).