In this contributed piece, David Ferguson, Cyber Development Lead & Head of Data at ScotlandIS, explores how Scotland’s space sector is positioning itself as a global leader in sustainable growth.
As space becomes a new industrial frontier, it’s clear we can’t afford to make the same environmental mistakes we’ve made on Earth. With rising satellite congestion, environmental impact of launch practices and the threat of space debris, the global space sector faces a sustainability reckoning.
From a fairly niche cluster of innovators, the Scottish space sector has evolved into one of the fastest growing in Europe, with a community offering services and products across the entire sector.
As the industry goes from strength to strength, we’re in a strong position with plenty of potential for growth. On track to capture a £4 billion share of the global market by 2030, Scotland has the momentum, motivation and opportunity to set a global standard for responsible and sustainable space activity.
Already, the nation is showing what leadership could look like. It builds more small satellites – or CubeSats – than anywhere else in Europe. These compact, low-orbit satellites use fewer resources, require less fuel and, to reduce long-term space debris, are designed to deorbit at end of life.
What’s more, SaxaVord Spaceport in Shetland is on course to become the UK’s first vertical launch site. With a strong focus on local environmental impact and sustainable operation, it sets a great example for future spaceport developments.
Across satellite design, launch infrastructure and mission planning, Scotland is weaving sustainability into every layer of its space ambitions, offering a valuable unique selling point for the sector and for Scotland.
But progress comes with a price tag. Developing infrastructure like spaceports, ground stations and test facilities demands major investment. Delivering in a highly regulated environment and achieving compliance with multiple layers of international laws further adds to the costs of operation. However, the reward for this effort and expense is investor confidence.
Commercial interest is rising which means growing momentum behind reusable rockets, green propulsion systems and international frameworks to manage orbital debris. But interest and vision isn’t enough to secure Scotland’s position in the space race, it’s funding that will unlock further development.
That’s why it’s vital we show potential investors there are big opportunities in Scotland.
Investors seek stable, transparent and efficient regulatory frameworks. Establishing dedicated space and green-tech investment pathways with streamlined licensing, regulatory clarity and competitive tax incentives will build confidence. The UK’s space regulatory reforms, if aligned with Scotland’s green transition goals, can offer a unique dual value proposition: sustainable compliance and commercial viability.
Scottish and UK governments have already shown recognition and support for the growth of a sustainable space sector – such as targeted funding and strategic support for new ventures. Not to mention the implementation of frameworks like the Space Sustainability Roadmap and the Scottish Space Strategy. And while that support is invaluable; without fast implementation, it’s not enough to lead in a competitive global market.
However, Scotland’s unique combination of benefits such as geography, ambition and a strong culture of innovation gives it more than a fighting chance against international competition.
The sector is also aligning itself with frameworks like the Space Sustainability Rating (SSR), designed to assess and promote the sustainability of missions, and contributing to global targets including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). But real progress depends on more than market forces.
The US – a long-standing industry powerhouse – is rapidly advancing its own sustainability standards. Other countries like Germany and Italy are also catching up, having attracted significant investment into space startups.
It’s time to deliver a coherent message that shows why Scotland’s space sector is doing things differently. Demonstrating we are technically adept, ambitious and innovative, but also capable of operating effectively in a highly regulated and compliance driven sector is one way to do this. When combined with a consistent focus on sustainability and environmental awareness, it makes for a compelling proposition.
Take small satellites for instance. They’re already transforming how the global space sector manages agriculture, energy and transport. Farmers can monitor soil health and optimise irrigation. Renewable energy providers can assess grid capacity with pinpoint accuracy. Urban planners can track emissions and infrastructure in real time. These insights are critical to helping other industries achieve their own net zero goals.
Funding and investment are of course essential to develop next-generation, sustainable technologies and infrastructure. But to do that, we also need international visibility to draw inward investment.
The more we are positioned as a go-to destination for safe, sustainable technology development, the greater the long-term global opportunity will be.
By creating these conditions for growth, Scottish and UK governments can fast-track Scotland’s role as a world leader in sustainable space.
Scotland has a window of opportunity, but it’s closing. With focused, proactive government support, we have the potential to set the global standard for how the space industry can grow responsibly. But if we don’t act now, we risk giving other nations the upper hand.
Source: DIGIT