The increasing menace of space debris necessitates a global pact aimed at protecting Earth’s orbit, according to a coalition of researchers urging the United Nations to prioritize the safeguarding of space as an essential international objective.
While there are current guidelines addressing space debris, such as the UN Outer Space Treaty of 1967, the researchers advocate for enhanced efforts to raise awareness about the exploitation of orbital resources and the mounting dangers of orbital pollution, emphasizing that Earth’s orbit remains intrinsically linked to our planet.
The team proposes incorporating the protection of space into the UN’s existing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a set of 17 broad objectives designated for member states to achieve by 2030. These goals encompass eradicating poverty, promoting quality education, ensuring equal opportunities, providing access to clean energy, and combating climate change. According to a team member, there is currently no provision for space within these goals.
To address this gap, the researchers are advocating for an 18th SDG, which would involve commitments such as the removal of satellites and rockets from orbit once they reach the end of their operational lifespan to avert collisions and the proliferation of new debris. Additionally, they recommend the implementation of fines and regulations to enforce accountability. One team member noted that preventing debris accumulation in space is preferable to tackling the challenges associated with cleaning it up after it has formed.
The number of active satellites in orbit has surged in recent years, escalating from fewer than 3,000 in 2020 to over 10,000 today. This significant rise is largely attributed to approximately 7,000 satellites constituting a major satellite internet constellation. Many more are being planned by various organizations and nations, which further compounds the issue with numerous derelict rockets and millions of pieces of space debris already in orbit.
Inclusion of space debris in an 18th SDG could elevate awareness regarding the issue, according to a space law expert. However, he pointed out the challenges of galvanizing countries to take concrete action in this domain—highlighting that international agreements inevitably require compromises.
Another expert emphasized that although establishing an SDG focused on space could yield benefits, there are ongoing measures to address space debris, including the UN’s long-term sustainability guidelines for outer space activities and localized efforts, such as the rules implemented by authorities to manage inactive satellites in orbit. Despite these efforts, there are concerns regarding the effectiveness of SDGs, as less than one-fifth of the targets set out in the current 17 SDGs were reported to be on track last year.
A significant hurdle remains the necessity for collaboration with leading space entities to effectuate meaningful progress in space governance. It is now vital to engage with all key stakeholders rather than solely focusing on member states.
