2. Which Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs) aligned most with Space Sustainability?
Goal 4: Quality Education.
Goal 7: Affordable, Clean, and Renewable Energy.
Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Goal 17: Partnerships to Achieve the Goal.
3. Call for Action:
Space Education:
Based on thoughts shared by Mr Samuel Gibbs, a space educator for more than 25 years:
In Southeast Asia, where he has primarily worked, there is huge enthusiasm amongst students of all levels in space education.
However, education systems need to be more mindful of providing a solid foundational education to equip students with the intellectual capacity to develop space. Subsequently, to strike up conversations and take actions necessary in bringing space technologies to their countries.
Skills-based development is vital in sustaining space infrastructure development but is still inadequate and needs to be refined.
Mr Gibbs shared his experience leading students in NASA’s Space Settlement Design Competition. He emphasised how outstanding outcomes and ideas can be generated without huge budgets. The primary focus should be on the commitment of key stakeholders in the space industry.
Responsible consumption of resources during space exploration:
Focus on alternatives such as SpaceX’s reusable rockets.
Renewable energy sources might also be worth looking into as an alternative to fuel-based spacecraft.