Diamonds could be a brilliant climate solution

Dust from the precious gems might be the planet's best friend

Illustrative collage of a woman's hands opening a jewellery box. Inside there is a sparkling illustration of the Earth.
Diamonds' reflectivity could be a powerful tool for lowering temperatures
(Image credit: Illustration by Julia Wytrazek / Getty Images)

The Earth needs to chill and showering it in bling could be the way to do it. Scientists are interested in depositing diamond dust into the atmosphere in order to reflect sunlight and cool down the planet. Though using diamond could be more effective and safer than using other particles, the price may not allow the feasibility of such diamond-tossing.

Reflection in the sky with diamonds

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Devika Rao, The Week US

 Devika Rao has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022, covering science, the environment, climate and business. She previously worked as a policy associate for a nonprofit organization advocating for environmental action from a business perspective.