Green Toolkit for Space
Medium

E-waste from decommissioned electronics

Satellite avionics contain hazardous materials that contribute to e-waste concerns if not properly managed during end-of-life.

REACH Regulation (EC 1907/2006) EU
Components
Avionics On-board Computer Sensors
Lifecycle Stages
Satellite Design Satellite Manufacturing Operational Deployment
Environmental Concerns
Resource Depletion Toxic Material Usage

Obligations (1)

Responsible sourcing of rare earth materials

Medium

Manufacturers should implement supply chain due diligence for conflict minerals and rare earth elements used in satellite electronics.

REACH Regulation (EC 1907/2006)

Opportunities (2)

Circular economy in satellite manufacturing

Medium

Implement design-for-recycling principles, use recycled materials, and establish take-back programmes to reduce resource consumption and waste.

ESA Clean Space Initiative REACH Regulation (EC 1907/2006)

Design for demise

High

Engineer satellite components to fully ablate during atmospheric re-entry, eliminating ground impact risk and reducing liability concerns.

ESA Clean Space Initiative NASA Technical Report: Satellite End-of-Life Best Practices