Assessing Socio-Economic Contributions From Space Technologies
- Paper number
IAC-09.E3.4.5
- Author
Mrs. Claire Jolly, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), France
- Coauthor
Mr. Pierre Alain Schieb, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), France
- Year
2009
- Abstract
The demands on natural resources’ sustainability, on safety and on transport efficiency are growing quickly. A number of space applications have demonstrated over the years their usefulness as technical and scientific tools. Despite this, it cannot be taken for granted that investment in space systems will automatically be forthcoming especially in the current economic context. What is required is a sound tool box to help policy makers arrive at investment decisions. Focussing on three case studies – fresh water management, marine resources, and maritime transport – this paper examines selected socio-economic contributions that space technologies can make. A review of benefit and cost methodologies is provided, as well as a set of examples. In addition, in the light of the need to further develop quantifiable analysis, it can be argued that policy makers need to explore original pathways to reaching decisions. Drawing parallels with terrestrial infrastructures and the economic importance of risk management, two promising approaches are presented. The findings presented in this paper are based on research conducted in the framework of the OECD Forum on Space Economics. Hosted by the OECD’s International Futures Programme, the Forum benefits from the Organisation’s intergovernmental and international economic expertise, and from active participation from the space community. The Forum’s mandate is to provide an improved understanding of the space sector statistically and to investigate its impacts as an infrastructure on the wider economy.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-09.E3.4.5.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.