Space Sustainability: From, In & For Space
Why Space Sustainability Matters
Space activities are accelerating — driving advances in climate monitoring, global connectivity, and innovation. But rapid growth brings challenges: orbital debris, environmental impacts, and pressure on planetary boundaries. At Green Orbit, we approach sustainability through a holistic lens — ensuring that space continues to deliver benefits without crossing ecological or orbital tipping points.
Defining Space Sustainability
Although ‘space sustainability’ is now widely used, until recently, there was no shared definition across the sector.
“The long-term sustainability of outer space activities is defined as the ability to maintain the conduct of space activities indefinitely into the future in a manner that realizes the objectives of equitable access to the benefits of the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes, in order to meet the needs of the present generations while preserving the outer space environment for future generations.”
“The long-term sustainability of outer space activities (on-ground and in-orbit) is defined as the ability to maintain and improve the conduct of space activities indefinitely into the future in a manner that ensures continued access to the benefits of the exploration and use of space for peaceful purposes, in order to meet the needs of the present generations while preserving both the Earth and the outer space environment for future generations. Space sustainability also requires promoting the use and environmental benefits of space data and recognising the need for the launch and in-orbit activities to be carried out in an increasingly responsible and sustainable manner.”
Our Perspective at Green Orbit
Building on the research of Wilson & Vasile (2023), we use a three-pillar framework to embed sustainability into every strategy. Explore our approaches to From Space, In Space, and For Space through our services, insights, and collaborative partnerships.
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From Space
Leveraging space data and applications to tackle global challenges such as climate monitoring and the Sustainable Development Goals.
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In Space
Championing responsible orbital use — debris mitigation, traffic management, and extending satellite lifetimes with servicing and reuse.
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For Space
Minimising Earth impacts from launches, manufacturing, and re-entry, while aligning with planetary boundaries and net-zero commitments.
Action Framework: Net-Zero ×3
We co-develop roadmaps with clients and partners to achieve a Net-Zero ×3 vision by 2050:
Zero Debris Proliferation
Adopting strict debris mitigation and reliable disposal strategies, while investing in debris removal innovation.
Zero Unnecessary Earth Impacts
Conducting robust life-cycle assessments, reporting emissions transparently, and addressing harmful re-entry pollution.
Zero Unsustainable Resource Use
Designing for modularity, reuse, and recycling — supporting a circular space economy.
Partnerships for a Sustainable Future
True sustainability requires collaboration. At Green Orbit, we work with industry, academia, and policymakers to shape standards, share knowledge, and accelerate adoption. From leadership roles in the UKspace Startup Working Group to joint innovation projects, partnerships are central to turning sustainability from ambition into action.