What is it about?
This paper looks at how the space sector, with its need to reuse and recycle everything in the harsh environment of space, has been practicing many of the principles of the circular economy (CE) for decades, long before the term became popular on Earth. Using the example of ESA’s MELiSSA project, a closed-loop water treatment system designed for space missions, the study shows how these space-borne innovations can guide more efficient and sustainable resource use here on Earth. It argues that the space industry is a natural home for CE thinking and offers a ready-made framework for making our economies more sustainable.
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Photo by Alessandro Ferrari on Unsplash
Why is it important?
If we are entering a new industrial revolution through Industry 4.0, we need models that are both inclusive and sustainable. The space sector’s ability to operate with extreme efficiency and zero waste provides valuable lessons for Earth-based industries. By applying these proven approaches, we can accelerate the shift towards a circular economy that conserves resources, reduces waste, and supports long-term sustainability.
Perspectives
I’ve always been fascinated by how innovations from space travel, where every drop of water and gram of material matters, can solve problems on Earth. This research shows that the circular economy isn’t just an abstract ideal; it’s already working in one of the most challenging environments imaginable. I believe we can use these lessons to make Industry 4.0 truly sustainable, ensuring that efficiency and inclusion go hand in hand.
Dr Krish Saha
Birmingham City University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Sustainable space for a sustainable Earth? Circular economy insights from the space sector, Journal of Environmental Management, July 2021, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.112511.
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