Six ways space technologies benefit life on Earth

The document outlines the critical role of space technologies in supporting global sustainability, security, and economic growth. It highlights how satellites enable precise climate monitoring, provide connectivity to underserved populations, and facilitate international cooperation. The briefing emphasizes the necessity of orbital sustainability to ensure these benefits continue for future generations.

• Space technologies are essential for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with remote sensing satellites comprising approximately one third of all operational satellites. Over 80 countries have launched at least one satellite, and nearly 50% of all countries possess space capabilities, including one third that are lower middle income or below.
• Satellites are critical for climate science and disaster preparedness, providing over 99% of accurate weather forecasts. More than 160 satellites currently measure climate change indicators, and over half of essential climate variables can only be measured from space.
• Satellite communications can bridge the digital divide by connecting the 49% of the world's population currently lacking connectivity. In Africa, High Throughput Satellites (HTS) supply increased by nearly 300% from 88 Gbps in 2015 to 255 Gbps in 2018.
• Space technologies enhance global security and transparency. More than 600 remote sensing satellites monitor borders, and satellites have been used for 50 years to verify nuclear arms control treaties, including the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty.
• The global space economy is valued at $366 billion. The sector has seen significant growth and efficiency gains, including an 80% reduction in the manufacturing cost of satellite Gbps since 2013 and a 15X increase in the number of imagery satellites over a decade.
• Orbital sustainability is critical for business continuity and the long-term viability of space services. Satellites help combat illegal logging, fishing, and wildlife trade, which account for more than $73 billion annually.

APA

World Economic Forum (2020). Six ways space technologies benefit life on Earth. https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_GFC_Six_ways_space_technologies_2020.pdf

Chicago

World Economic Forum. Six ways space technologies benefit life on Earth. 2020. https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_GFC_Six_ways_space_technologies_2020.pdf.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |author=World Economic Forum |title=Six ways space technologies benefit life on Earth |date=September 2020 |url=https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_GFC_Six_ways_space_technologies_2020.pdf |access-date=23 October 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{worldeconomicforum2020six, author = {{World Economic Forum}}, title = {{Six ways space technologies benefit life on Earth}}, institution = {World Economic Forum}, year = {2020}, month = sep, url = {https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_GFC_Six_ways_space_technologies_2020.pdf}, urldate = {2026-10-23}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }