The evolution of Earth Observation: exploring space sustainability through European case studies

Abstract

In September 2015, the United Nations launched the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, followed by the adoption of the ‘Space2030’ Agenda in October 2021, highlighting the importance of space and Earth Observation (EO) data in monitoring progress towards these goals. This research examines the benefits of EO evolution, spurred by New Space initiatives, within socioeconomic sustainability and development. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are introduced to assess the socioeconomic impacts related to Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG8) targets 8.2 and 8.3. Findings show that the EO evolution enhances job opportunities (KPI1) and increases job deployment rates per investment (KPI2). Furthermore, this trend democratises access to the space market, significantly boosting participation of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) (KPI3).

Keywords

• Earth Observation
• sustainability
• new space
• space engineering