The Earth is often perceived as a pristine blue marble, but human space exploration and industrialization have left behind a growing amount of debris in orbit around the planet. Known as space junk, this accumulation poses significant risks to astronauts, infrastructure, GPS services, and weather monitoring. To address this issue, a team of scientists has proposed a strategy for restoring Earth’s orbit to its former state.
The solution lies in adopting similar methods used to clean up oceans. The researchers suggest holding satellite manufacturers financially accountable, developing international legislation, creating incentives for companies to minimize orbital debris, and stimulating collective scientific cooperation. This approach is based on the success of ocean cleanup efforts and can be applied to the vast majority of space junk problems.
The scientists emphasize that the orbital environment must be treated as a finite resource, requiring protection and conservation. They urge the United Nations to establish a new sustainable development goal focused on promoting space conservation and sustainment. With 17 existing goals addressing poverty and peace, an 18th goal dedicated to protecting the planet’s orbit would provide a crucial framework for international cooperation.
By adopting this strategy, scientists aim to prevent the accumulation of space junk and ensure the long-term sustainability of our planet’s orbit.
Source: https://www.salon.com/2025/01/11/space-junk-cleanup-should-adopt-same-strategy-as-ocean-conservation-experts-propose