Space and Sustainability: Building a Future in Two Dimensions

Sustainability has become a critical focus across industries, and the space sector is no exception. As our reliance on space grows, so does the need to address the sustainability of space activities and the benefits that space can bring to sustainability efforts back on Earth. Fusing these two aspects will ensure the longevity of space as a resource while leveraging space technology to tackle pressing global challenges.

Sustainability in Space: Protecting a Critical Frontier

The exponential increase in satellite launches has produced unprecedented congestion in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). Between 2013 and 2023, the number of annual deployments grew twelve-fold, reaching over 2,600 in 2023 alone. Most of these satellites belong to mega-constellations like SpaceX’s Starlink and OneWeb, which aim to provide global broadband coverage but also contribute significantly to space traffic. As a result, LEO is now home to over 9,500 active satellites, with thousands more planned for launch in the coming years.

The problem of space debris exacerbates these challenges. There are over 20,000 pieces of debris larger than 10 cm currently orbiting Earth, while fragments between 1 cm and 10 cm number around 850,000. Even small debris less than 1 cm in size, numbering in the millions, can cause severe damage to spacecraft. These fragments pose threats to operational satellites, risking collisions that can generate even more debris. The most vulnerable regions, such as the 500-600 km and 850 km altitude bands, are critical for satellite services like weather forecasting and climate monitoring. These are vital for both the public and private sectors.

Economically, the stakes are enormous. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the total economic activity at risk due to space debris is estimated at $191 billion, with 97 percent of this risk linked to defunct objects. The satellites in these orbits support services that are essential for modern economies, from telecommunications to national security. In response, international initiatives such as the UN's Long-Term Sustainability (LTS) Guidelines, the International Telecommunication Union’s Space Sustainability Gateway, and the European Space Agency’s Zero Debris Charter are pushing for stricter debris mitigation and space traffic management measures.

Despite these efforts, compliance remains a challenge. In 2022, only 55 percent of satellites and 85 percent of rocket bodies adhered to post-mission disposal guidelines. This has spurred discussions on introducing economic mechanisms, such as launch taxes or performance bonds, to incentivize better compliance with sustainability standards. These policy tools, alongside international collaboration, are essential to ensure that space remains accessible for future generations.

Sustainability from Space: Enabling Global Sustainability

While the sustainability of space itself is a concern, the other side of the coin is the critical role that space-based technologies play in fostering sustainability back on Earth. The impact of space and satellite technologies can be traced to the achievement of all of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, within the goals themselves, studies illustrate that 40 percent of all targets can benefit directly from only two space applications; namely, Earth observation and navigation services. Below are several areas where space technology contributes directly to achieving global sustainability.

Earth Observation and Climate Action

Satellites equipped with EO technology are at the forefront of monitoring environmental changes, making invaluable contributions to SDG 13 (Climate Action). These satellites track deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and changes in polar ice caps, providing critical data that governments and organizations use to develop informed climate policies. For instance, the Space Climate Observatory, an international initiative with 48 signatories, leverages satellite data to monitor the localized impacts of climate change. This allows nations to prepare for extreme weather events and adapt their infrastructure accordingly.

One of the most remarkable contributions of space technologies to sustainability is in disaster risk reduction. Satellites play a crucial role in early warning systems for natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, enabling timely evacuation efforts and minimizing the loss of life and property. This supports the objectives of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, further emphasizing the importance of space technology. The resilience provided by satellite communication systems helps both urban and rural communities in managing disaster risks, aligning with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Agriculture and Resource Management

Precision agriculture, enabled by satellite technology, supports the achievement of SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by optimizing the use of water and fertilizers. This ensures more sustainable farming practices. Satellites provide high-resolution imagery that allows farmers to monitor crop health, manage soil conditions, and predict weather patterns, improving food production efficiency while reducing environmental impacts.

Additionally, satellite technology helps manage natural resources, like forests and fisheries. For instance, satellite data is used to track illegal fishing activities, which pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems. By supporting sustainable fisheries management (SDG 14 - Life Below Water), satellites are contributing to the preservation of marine biodiversity.

Connectivity and Digital Inclusion

Space technologies also play a significant role in bridging the digital divide, contributing to both SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality). Satellite communication brings essential services, like telemedicine and remote education, to isolated and underserved regions, fostering socio-economic development where terrestrial infrastructure is lacking.

Additionally, LEO constellations that provide internet connectivity have the potential to bring underserved and unserved populations online. According to the ITU, increasing internet access by 10 percent generates increases in GDP per capita of 2.5 to 2.8 percent for mobile broadband and 2 to 2.3 percent for fixed broadband. By 2030, estimates suggest that at least 500 million people will use satellite broadband connectivity. The associated benefits for households are calculated at $52 billion.

The Path Forward: Fostering Space Sustainability

As the space industry expands, strong regulatory frameworks will be essential to maintain sustainability while fostering growth. The increasing number of private companies and nations entering space requires regulations that manage satellite traffic and debris while encouraging technological innovation and investment. Balancing sustainability with industry growth is crucial to ensure space remains a viable resource for future generations.

Clear and progressive policies can provide certainty for investors and operators, supporting new ventures and mega-constellations while maintaining access to space for all. By prioritizing both sustainability and innovation, these frameworks will enable the space economy to thrive without compromising the orbital environment. VS