Cloud Reflectivity Modification - Basic Principles

Basic Principles

Low level stratocumulus clouds cover approximately one-third of the oceans surface. These clouds possess Albedo levels of 0.3-0.7. The levels of albedo present in the low-level marine stratocumulus clouds create a significant global cooling effect. Theoretically, by increasing the albedo of the clouds, via spraying sea water(NaCl) droplets approximately 1 μm in size, the cooling effects of the clouds are increased and potentially their longevity is enhanced. By creating cloud condensation nuclei, it might be possible to change the albedo of clouds to make them appear whiter. This can be done using a variety of chemicals and techniques, with seawater sprays from ships being a simple example. Broadly speaking, the marine environment has a deficit of cloud condensation nuclei due to lower levels of dust and pollution at sea, so this technique is more effective over the ocean than over land.