Launching a Greener Future: Sustainable Practices in Modern Rocketry

Siok Tan and Grace Nguyen | 3 April 2025

On 19 February 2025, Komorniki, a quaint Polish town, became an unexpected stage for the space sustainability debate when debris from a satellite payload delivery rocket blazed across northern Europe before crash-landing. This fiery spectacle highlighted the growing pains of the space industry, where technological ambition collides with environmental and security concerns. As nations and tech firms push the boundaries of space exploration and commercialisation, it is imperative that they confront critical operational and environmental sustainability issues. This think piece delves into the importance of adopting sustainable space practices, the innovative solutions to mitigate the adverse impacts of rocket launches, and the regulatory/policy frameworks needed to facilitate such solutions.

Komorniki: Wake-Up Call for Sustainable Space Practices

The space debris crash-landing in Poland serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by the increasing amount of space debris orbiting our planet. This event underscores the European Space Agency's 2024 Space Environment Report, which tracked over 35,000 objects in Earth's orbit, with 26,000 being debris larger than 10 cm. As commercial space activities intensify, with hundreds of launches planned for 2025 alone, the problem is set to worsen.

Space Debris’ Risks to People and Property

The Komorniki incident is one of several recent incidents, which have highlighted the risks posed to communities and infrastructure on Earth by uncontrolled re-entries of space debris. Others include:

Space debris striking a roof in North Carolina, USA.

A piece of the International Space Station crashing through a home in Florida, USA.
Diversion of commercial flights crossing over the Caribbean Sea due to falling debris.

These events demonstrate that what goes up does not always stay up – and when it comes down, the consequences can be dire.

Communications Crisis Affecting Emergency Response

The Komorniki incident also revealed a lack of preparedness among Polish agencies, triggering a public blame game. Observers noted that despite routine government SMS alerts for extreme weather, there was silence regarding the potentially dangerous space debris re-entry.

The Polish Space Agency (POLSA) claimed to have informed relevant parties about the predicted debris entry on 13 February 2025. However, a "communication problem" arose when POLSA sent crucial information to an outdated email address.

The aftermath saw finger-pointing:

The Ministry of Defence blamed POLSA for ineffective communication.

POLSA insisted it had followed proper procedures.

Some officials criticised EU space monitoring structures.

In response, the Minister of Development and Technology called on POLSA to develop new communication procedures. The Polish Space Professionals Association expressed concern over the "mutual antagonism" among national security institutions.

Indeed, beyond the immediate risks posed by space debris, the incident has highlighted the urgent need to streamline and update communication channels between space agencies and national security institutions, and ensure clear protocols for disseminating time-sensitive information about potential space debris threats.

Fair Competition and Insurability

There is also the critical issue about fair competition and insurability in the space industry. In the wake of falling space debris incidents, questions arise about the insurability of space systems and the financial implications of such incidents. The uncontrolled re-entry of space debris in populated areas could lead to significant insurance claims, potentially driving more providers away from the space sector. This trend threatens the financial viability of space projects and raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of certain business models within the industry. There is thus an urgent need for:

Stricter licensing requirements that consider the insurability and long-term sustainability of proposed space systems.

Comprehensive debris mitigation plans as a prerequisite for launch approvals.

Clear liability frameworks that incentivise responsible practices and penalise negligence.

The concept of launching state responsibility, as outlined in international space law, must be reinforced and adapted to the realities of the modern space economy. As insurance becomes more challenging to secure in light of incidents like Komorniki, regulatory bodies must step in to ensure that only truly sustainable and responsible projects proceed. This symbiotic relationship between insurance markets and regulatory frameworks can drive innovation in risk mitigation technologies and practices, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable space ecosystem.

Environmental Sustainability

Last but certainly not the least, sustainable rocket launch practices matter from an environmental standpoint:

Stratospheric Ozone Depletion: Certain rocket propellants, particularly solid rocket motors, emit chlorine compounds that can catalyse ozone destruction in the stratosphere. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) projects that a tenfold increase in hydrocarbon-fuelled launches could lead to a 4% reduction in the ozone layer over the Arctic.

Particulate Emissions: Rockets emit significant quantities of particulate matter, primarily in the form of black carbon (soot) and alumina particles, which can alter the Earth’s radiation balance and potentially impact global climate patterns. Black carbon emissions from kerosene-fuelled rockets are estimated to be 1,000 metric tonnes annually, projected to increase to 10,000 metric tonnes by 2025 if launch frequencies continue to grow at current rates.

Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions: While relatively small compared to other industries, GHG emissions from rocket launches have a potentially exacerbated impact on climate change, as they are injected directly into the atmosphere. The amount of GHG emitted from rocket launches varies, depending on the size of the spacecraft and type of fuel used. Existing data suggests that the amount of carbon dioxide emitted can range from as low as 116 metric tons to 76,000 metric tons.

Local Ecosystem Disruption: Launch sites and their surrounding areas often face significant environmental pressures, such as soil and water contamination from propellant spills and exhaust residues; noise pollution affecting local wildlife populations; and habitat destruction for launch infrastructure development.

As the frequency of launches increases and debris re-entries become more common, it is crucial to consider the cumulative effects on our planet's ecosystems and atmosphere. The following sections outline several innovative solutions to advance sustainable practices in space exploration activities.

Reusable Rockets: Contributing to the Circular Economy

The Komorniki incident highlights the urgent need for sustainable space practices, particularly in reducing space debris. Reusable rockets offer a promising solution by aligning with circular economy principles and minimising waste. Key benefits include:

Design for Longevity: Developing rocket components with extended lifespans.

Resource Efficiency: Maximising the utility of materials and energy inputs.

Waste Reduction: Minimising discarded materials and components.

Refurbishment and Reuse: Extending the functional life of rocket systems.

By incorporating materials such as aluminium alloys, carbon fibre composites and advanced polymers, manufacturers can significantly reduce the environmental impact of rocket production. These materials not only offer excellent strength-to-weight ratios but also possess the potential for reuse and recycling in subsequent manufacturing cycles.

Reusable rocket technology not only optimises resource use and facilitates cost savings but also significantly reduces the potential for incidents by decreasing the amount of discarded rocket stages. However, challenges remain, such as material fatigue, end-of-life management, and industry-wide standardisation.

Green Propellants to Fuel the Aerospace Industry

Green propellants offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional rocket fuels. Characterised by low toxicity, reduced vapour pressure, thermal stability and higher density-specific impulse, these innovative propellants are designed to reduce the harmful emissions associated with rocket launches whilst maintaining or improving performance characteristics. There are several types of green propellant solutions currently under development or in early stages of utilisation; these include liquid methane (LCH4), high-concentration hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), ionic liquids, and bio-derived propellants.

These propellants offer multiple benefits for the aerospace industry and global sustainability efforts, ranging from positive environmental impacts to operational efficiency and potential project expansion. These benefits include: reducing carbon emissions; preventing ozone depletion; minimising contamination risks; enhancing operational safety; simplifying logistics; and improving performance. For space exploration, these propellants enable innovative mission designs, foster sustainable practices, and promote international collaboration.

Optimising Rocket Manufacturing and Launch Sustainability

The final set of solutions are initiatives geared at optimising the production and launch processes. These range from increasing energy efficiency, optimising the use of resources during launches, and adopting eco-friendly practices at launch sites.

Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing Processes

Similar to other sectors and industries, rocket manufacturing can several steps to reduce their energy consumption, thereby lowering the industry’s carbon footprint. Key strategies include:

Advanced Manufacturing Techniques such as additive manufacturing (3D printing) for complex components, precision machining to reduce material waste, and automated assembly lines for increased efficiency.

Energy-Efficient Technologies such as high-efficiency HVAC systems in manufacturing facilities, LED lighting and smart energy management systems, and waste heat recovery systems for energy reclamation.

Renewable Energy Integration including on-site solar and wind power generation, procurement of renewable energy through power purchase agreements, implementation of energy storage solutions for load balancing. NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, for instance, has implemented a 1-megawatt solar farm, which generates approximately 1,100 megawatt-hours of electricity annually, reducing the centre’s reliance on grid power.

Carpooling to Space: Ride-Share Rockets

Ride-share missions represent a significant opportunity for increasing launch efficiency and sustainability in the space industry. Benefits include:

Resource Optimisation: Consolidating multiple payloads on a single rocket maximises the use of propellant and launch infrastructure.

Cost Reduction: Shared launches distribute costs among multiple customers, making space access more affordable for a diverse range of participants.

Environmental Impact Mitigation: Fewer launches result in reduced emissions and less space debris, contributing to a cleaner orbital environment.

Market Expansion: Lower costs and increased launch opportunities foster innovation and growth in the commercial space sector.

Launch Site Sustainability: Integrating Green Practices in Space Operations

The space industry’s growing awareness of environmental impact has led to increased focus on sustainable practices at launch sites. In addition to the above-mentioned renewable energy integration strategies, two other key approaches are:

Recycling Initiatives: Effective waste management is crucial at launch sites. An example would be SpaceX’s comprehensive recycling programmes for materials such as metals, plastics, and electronic waste.

Ecosystem Protection: Protecting surrounding ecosystems from contamination is paramount. The ESA, for instance, has developed stringent environmental safeguards for its Kourou launch site in French Guiana. These measures include water treatment facilities, air quality monitoring, and habitat preservation efforts to minimise impact on the surrounding rainforest.

Launch site sustainability is, therefore, not just an environmental imperative but also a strategic advantage. By implementing such practices, space agencies and private companies can reduce operational costs, enhance public perception, and contribute to long-term space exploration sustainability.

Policy and Regulatory Frameworks for Sustainable Launch Practices

While technological advancements such as green propellants, reusable rockets, and optimised manufacturing are essential for making space launches more sustainable, comprehensive regulatory frameworks, guidelines, and standards at national and international levels are crucial for enforcing and ensuring these efforts. Effective policies and regulations can incentivise eco-friendly innovation, establish safety and environmental standards, and foster international collaboration, ensuring the long-term viability of space activities.

National and Regional Policies Filling in Gaps at the Global Level

As previously mentioned in our white paper on space sustainability, while key treaties and agreements provide a foundation for environmental responsibility in space activities (e.g. 1967 Outer Space Treaty, 1972 Liability Convention, UN COPUOS Guidelines on the Long-Term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities), international space law fundamentally lacks strong enforcement mechanisms.

The recent incident in Poland serves as a notable example of the challenges in liability enforcement under existing space law. Although no injuries occurred in the incident, the damage to property in Poland and potentially Ukraine underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and more effective enforcement mechanisms. Under the Outer Space Treaty and the Liability Convention, launching states bear international responsibility for national space activities and are liable for compensation. However, these treaties lack detailed enforcement provisions, relying primarily on diplomatic negotiations rather than binding legal mechanisms. As a result, Poland's compensation may depend on the political will of the United States rather than a mandatory legal process.

This regulatory gap has primarily led to action at the national and regional level. Although no single national policy comprehensively regulates the sustainability of rocket launches, several governments have integrated environmental considerations into their broader space policies. Growing concerns over space debris, green propulsion, and reusable rocket technologies are driving nations to implement regulatory measures aimed at space debris mitigation, remediation efforts, and environmental protection.

United States: Under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), all federal space-related projects must undergo an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to assess potential harm to the atmosphere and surrounding ecosystems. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also mandates environmental reviews as part of the commercial launch licensing process, ensuring compliance with sustainability and safety standards.

Japan: The Basic Space Law and the Space Activities Act require stringent environmental assessments before granting licences for satellite launches and spacecraft operations. Additionally, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) actively engages in reusable rocket technologies and initiatives, recognising their potential to reduce the carbon footprint of space missions.

Germany: Germany's 2023 Space Strategy calls for greater investment in environmentally friendly spaceflight, including support for low-emission fuels, advanced propulsion systems, and sustainable satellite manufacturing.

Poland: Poland is drafting a new national space law to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework aligned with international obligations. In light of the recent rocket debris incident, the law is anticipated to provide a robust framework for addressing liability for space debris damage and insurance requirements in the future. Additionally, the Polish Space Agency (POLSA) has been tasked with improving procedures for handling future space debris incidents.

Insurance plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable space activities by mitigating financial risks and encouraging responsible practices. Many jurisdictions, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, require commercial space operators to obtain liability insurance covering potential damages to third parties. By integrating insurance frameworks into national laws, governments can create a financial deterrent against irresponsible practices, reinforcing space sustainability as a regulatory priority.

At the regional level, the European Union (EU) and ESA have introduced several regulations and initiatives to promote sustainable space activities, with a particular focus on green propulsion. Notably, ESA has launched the world’s first Zero Debris Charter (2023), an internal standard aimed at significantly reducing debris in Earth and Lunar orbits by 2030, setting new benchmarks for spacecraft deorbiting and disposal. Additionally, the EU is drafting a comprehensive EU Space Law (expected in 2025) to establish common safety, security, and sustainability regulations for space activities across member states. This legal framework is timely post-Komorniki and anticipated to shape global best practices and promote responsible space governance worldwide.

While these national and regional efforts represent significant strides towards sustainable space practices, they are just the beginning of what needs to be a comprehensive global approach. The patchwork of policies, though commendable, highlights the need for more coordinated and far-reaching measures.

Way Forward: Policies for a Greener Space Industry

To achieve sustainable launch practices, governments, space agencies, and industry leaders must integrate policy-driven solutions alongside technological innovation. Key measures to accelerate sustainability in rocket launches include:

Fund Research and Regulation on Green Fuels: Support studies on rocket emissions and mandate adoption of eco-friendly propellants where feasible.

Strengthen Space Debris Laws: Update liability and insurance frameworks and enforce satellite deorbiting policies.

Harmonise Global Regulations: Align international space sustainability guidelines to ensure uniform environmental protections.

Enhance Stakeholder Collaboration: Strengthen cooperation among governments, regulatory bodies, and private industry to create enforceable global standards.

Policy plays a crucial role in ensuring the above advancements and innovation are implemented effectively. Regulatory frameworks at national and international levels must continue evolving to incentivise sustainable practices, enforce environmental and safety standards, and foster global cooperation in space governance. Stronger governance, standardised sustainability requirements, and coordinated international action will enable a future where spaceflight is both economically viable and environmentally responsible.

Dr. Siok Tan heads Spectrum Affairs in Welchman Keen’s Market Access & Regulatory Affairs Practice. With extensive experience in telecommunications policy, Dr. Tan specialises in navigating complex spectrum management challenges across global markets.

Grace Nguyen serves as Senior Policy and Regulatory Analyst in Welchman Keen's Market Access & Regulatory Affairs Practice. She specialises in market access, compliance, and regulatory complexities in the ICT and international business sectors.

Disclaimer: This article is only intended for general reading/informational purposes. Under no circumstances is it to be relied upon in substitution for specific advice on any issue(s) that may arise relating to its subject matter.