A New Challenge Facing Space Law: Climate Change.

Paper number

IAC-08.E8.5.6

Author

Mr. Jairo Andres Becerra Ortiz, BCR - Space Exploration , Spain

Year

2008

Abstract

This paper analyses the ways in which space law can contribute to the fight against climate change. We aim to establish the extent of the relation between global warming and particular areas of the space sector, and identify certain aspects that need a stronger legal framework.

Is there really a relation between climate change and space law? Is the space industry contributing to climate change and global warming? Can space law help to mitigate its effects? What changes should be made in space law to respond to this new challenge? How can we obtain tangible results? These questions must be answered if we mean to analyse the relation effectively.

We propose a series of responses to these questions, since we believe that space law can indeed contribute to mitigating the effects of climate change. In fact, we believe that it should do so without delay. Sectors such as remote sensing and remote observation are guiding the efforts to understand and monitor the phenomenon. Space law should provide these sectors with the legal support they need to be able to broaden their field of action and generate new alternatives for scientists in the fight against climate change. The desire to conciliate technological development and environmental sustainability expressed in space laws must be transferred to the space sector in an effective way; this is our responsibility. Finally, the number of countries with interests in outer space is increasing steadily. These countries should be required to commit themselves to protecting the environment of both space and the Earth. We must determine which legal measures are best suited to achieving this commitment.  

Abstract document

IAC-08.E8.5.6.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-08.E8.5.6.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.