Climate change mitigation through weather modification: cloud seeding as a global case study

Rain Enhancement, also known as cloud seeding, offers a sustainable source of fresh water by enhancing rainfall from specific clouds under specific conditions. This technology can boost the rainfall of a specific cloud by up to 25% under optimal conditions.

The significance of this side event extends beyond the realm of meteorology and technology. Weather modification, specifically Rain Enhancement and cloud seeding technologies, plays a crucial role in the broader context of climate change mitigation and building climate resilience. By enhancing our capacity to optimize rainfall and manage water resources more effectively, we take strides toward addressing climate change-induced water scarcity. 

The ability to bolster precipitation in arid regions can help mitigate the impact of prolonged droughts and contribute to ecosystem restoration. Moreover, increased rainfall can aid in recharging aquifers, reducing the reliance on unsustainable groundwater extraction practices. In this way, weather modification not only tackles immediate water challenges but also supports long-term climate resilience efforts, making it a vital component of our strategy to combat climate change and create a more sustainable future for our planet.

This event, hosted by the UAE National Center of Meteorology (NCM), will feature a diverse array of speakers, including experts and researchers from global entities like the WMO's Weather Modification Expert Team, the US Weather Modification Association, the European Geosciences Union (EGU), as well as NCM and its UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP). 

As a case study, UAEREP has provided financial funding and technical support to approximately 11 pioneering research projects worldwide. These projects have involved over 64 researchers from 35 research centers spanning 11 countries. Their collective goal has been to advance the theoretical understanding of cloud seeding technologies and apply this knowledge to enhance operational effectiveness.