Riyadh: The Space Futures Centre, in partnership with the World Economic Forum and the Saudi Space Agency, has unveiled a pivotal insights report titled 'Clear Orbit, Secure Future: a Call to Action on Space Debris.' This announcement was made during the Space Debris Conference 2026, highlighting the importance of addressing space debris to ensure the growth and sustainability of the global space economy.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the report aligns with the missions of contributing organizations such as the Saudi Space Agency, LeoLabs, and Novaspace. It emphasizes the necessity of addressing the needs of stakeholders within the space community, including service users, providers, policymakers, and academia. The report warns that neglecting the current space debris situation could result in economic losses ranging from $25.8 billion to $42.3 billion over the next decade, stressing the need for a healthier space environment.
The report is based on a series of community consultations focused on assessing the risks and economic costs associated with space debris. It provides a quantitative evaluation of the potential economic impact on the global space economy, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
The release of these insights marks a significant step toward fostering dialogue on orbital sustainability. It combines the mission-driven focus of the Space Futures Centre with the global network and influence of the World Economic Forum. The objective is to equip the global space community with valuable guidance to tackle current and future challenges.
The report's authors have invited the international space community to provide their perspectives and feedback as part of ongoing collaborative efforts to develop collective solutions. These efforts aim to ensure a safer and more sustainable orbital environment, a call endorsed by Space Futures Centre chief executive Mishaal Al Shemimri and World Economic Forum Centre for Technology and Innovation Frontiers head of planet solutions Helen Birt.