ABOUT
The European space sector has, through its programmes and services, fostered sustainable development on Earth already since many years. It plays a crucial role in Europe’s strive towards the wellbeing of its citizens and a low-carbon and climate resilient economy. The growing expectations of the citizens encourage us in formalising the continuous engagement of ESA to address the emergency to tackle the global challenges faced by society. ESA and the space sector have therefore the opportunity to reinforce the purpose of technologies to preserve life and resources for the future generations.
Thus, encouraging innovative and creative ideas where space contributes to the sustainable development (SD) of the society is a vital ingredient for the European space sector. Stimulating and enriching the debate around the links between space and SD challenges while keeping a multi-disciplinary scope and global approach were the main motivations for the European Interparliamentary Space Conference (EISC) and the European Space Agency (ESA) to launch the ‘Space for Sustainability Award’ in 2012.
Every year, the ‘Space for Sustainability Award’ is targeting students and young professionals under 30 with Project Ideas which will enable the space sector to put SD on a formal footing, raise awareness among the younger generations and professionals, and contribute to furthering the debate on the topic.
The Award is honored annually during the fall plenary session of EISC to the best Project Idea that integrates application areas focusing on sustainability linked to space.