Sustainable Space Policy

This volume examines the effect of human activity in space, and how global, regional and national responses seek to achieve sustainable space policy. The volume considers the activities and benefits accruing from space-related technologies and how these relate to the ways that humanity can be present in outer space. The hopes and aspirations invested in space for humanity’s benefit and its further development are ever-expanding, with opportunities for exploration, and wealth creation. However, the work also tackles the challenges, includin the impact of satellite constellations; space debris; the fragmented nature of international governance of space; and the impact of militarisation of space. Effective responses to these challenges require an effort from key space-active nations and non-state actors. The entities involved in the governance of space range from political institutions to non-governmental organisations, and understanding and developing sustainable space policy is an ongoing effort that requires collaboration and cooperation between different stakeholders. While largely focused on the European Union, the volume spans the international arena, including the UN and countries such as the USA, Nigeria, Brazil, Zambia, and specific EU member states. Ultimately, the book draws attention to the multiple ways in which a sustainable space policy necessarily intersects with, and is shaped by the wider global political, economic, and environmental context. This book will be of much interest to students of space policy, sustainability, and International Relations.