space sustainability approaches of emerging space nations: mexico, colombia and brazil

Paper number

IAC-14,E3,4,6,x22402

Author

Ms. Laura Delgado Lopez, Secure World Foundation, United States

Year

2014

Abstract

Efforts to advance space sustainability have evolved from a growing understanding that the actions of any one space actor can have a long-term impact in the ability of all to use this shared resource. With the advent of emerging space actors – nations, intergovernmental organizations, industry, and even individuals – the need for shared understanding of what constitutes responsible behavior in space becomes even more pressing. Consequently, a key component of efforts to address complex threats to space sustainability – such as congestion of key orbits, space debris, radio frequency interference, and potential for conflict in space – is to engage new space actors in the process. Given that emerging space actors are not necessarily aware of these issues or of how their own actions can help minimize or augment our continued ability to use space in the long-term, it is important that more established stakeholders inform and engage emerging space actors on space sustainability and facilitate multi-stakeholder collaboration in promoting responsible behavior in space. 

This paper will gauge the degree of awareness, interest and involvement in space sustainability advancement of three emerging space nations in Latin America. Building on prior research that examined the development paths of space actors in three emerging space regions of the world and their impact on space sustainability, this paper will offer insights on the current space sustainability concerns and priorities of three emerging space nations: Mexico, Colombia and Brazil.  Through literature review, expert interviews and by examining the involvement of these actors in international space forums, it will address questions such as: {\it How do these actors define space sustainability?; what are their primary concerns?; what actions are they taking to address space sustainability?}; and {\it what are their views on international mechanisms under development to address this issue?} The findings and conclusions from this analysis will help inform ongoing efforts to engage other emerging space actors in the region in the advancement of space sustainability.

Abstract document

IAC-14,E3,4,6,x22402.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-14,E3,4,6,x22402.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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