The circular space economy: paving the way for sustainable extraterrestrial ventures

This discussion will explore the need for developing a circular economic system whilst recognised the challenges facing both national space actors and private entities in this regard. Coherent strategies for wedding existing approaches to sustainability with a broader circular approach will also be advocated, together with some of the technical developments that are required. Finally, there will be a roadmap as to how to achieve this, focusing on the need for technical innovation, research and cooperation in this area. The discussion will outline the ways in which such an approach can be incentivized, and the political leadership needed in respect of the underpinning values of human space activity in order to promote circularity in the space economy.