ESPI – Space Debris Mitigation

The issue of space debris and the importance of space safety and sustainability have become global concerns in recent years, reaching beyond the space community to the general public. Efforts are being made by stakeholders in the space sector to address these challenges, with a focus on expanding existing frameworks and implementing new instruments to mitigate space debris. However, the increasing number of initiatives led by non-state actors may complicate the global landscape of space debris mitigation. Despite the involvement of various stakeholders, there is a lack of alignment on concrete implementation strategies. Regulatory frameworks are evolving to prioritize space safety and sustainability, but there is a need to balance these efforts with industry competitiveness and avoid creating barriers for new market actors. Public actors should support the development of technology and allocate resources to address space debris issues. It is also important to shift the narrative surrounding space debris from pessimism to a more positive outlook, emphasizing the socio-economic benefits of space exploration and the importance of ensuring a sustainable future in space.