A recent spike in ocean temperatures at the Great Barrier Reef is prompting urgent calls for artificial cooling interventions. Scientists attribute the warming surge to a decrease in shipping emissions, which has reduced aerosol pollutants that previously reflected sunlight. This sudden change has increased the risk of widespread coral bleaching. Proposed solutions include marine cloud brightening, a technique that involves spraying seawater into the air to create reflective clouds. Experts emphasize the need for immediate action to protect the iconic reef ecosystem from further damage.