The idea is to develop a carbon baseline for the UK space sector. This is to better understand the environmental impact of space activity. Also, the audit will include suggestions for practical ways to reduce the carbon emissions.
Carbon audit
The data collected from companies, says Space4Climate, will be anonymised and aggregated into a broader analysis. It will then be used to provide a picture of how carbon intensive the UK space industry currently is, and also aims to contribute to the UK’s goal of net-zero emissions.
Dr Andrew Ross Wilson from Glasgow Caledonian University is working on the initiative.
The project itself is set to finish by the end of 2025. Dr Wilson, however, emphasises its effects will be felt immediately:
“Participating space organisations can start taking control of their carbon footprint at no cost, jumpstarting efforts to make their operations eco-friendly through personalised action plans. This immediate impact sets the stage for continuous efforts to make the space sector more sustainable over time.”
You can find out more about the environmental audit online.
Space4Climate
Space4Climate is chaired by the UK Space Agency. It has close working links to Government ministries and departments, including DSIT, DESNZ, Defra and the UKRI.
The organisation is hosted by the National Centre for Earth Observation (NCEO). This is a research centre made up of more than 100 scientists from UK universities and research organisations.
Image: Space4Climate
See also: Anglia is now carbon-neutral
