SWF and Exponential Academy Release “ESG in Space” Episode 7 Featuring Sabrina Alam on Designing a Sustainable Space Sector

Thursday, April 24, 2025

Secure World Foundation is pleased to release Episode 7 of ESG in Space, a limited podcast series co-produced with Exponential Academy and hosted by Nishan Degnarain and Miki Sode. In this new episode, sustainability expert Sabrina Alam joins the hosts to offer a European perspective on integrating ESG into space industry operations. With a career spanning NASA, ESA, SES Satellites, and now KPMG Luxembourg, Sabrina offers unmatched insight into the regulatory, commercial, and design-based approaches driving sustainable innovation in Europe’s space ecosystem.

Sabrina discusses the implementation of mandatory ESG reporting frameworks like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), and how these frameworks are influencing procurement, satellite design, and risk planning. She highlights how European companies are embedding sustainability principles at every level, viewing ESG as a long-term strategic advantage, not a regulatory burden.

This episode sheds light on why Europe’s approach is being closely watched around the world, especially as questions of equity, transparency, and sustainability increasingly shape the future of commercial space activity.

Listen to "ESG in Space" Episode 7 below, on YouTube, or on your preferred podcast platform.

Timestamps for Key Topics

  • 00:00:30 – Introduction of Sabrina Alam and her ESG background across NASA, ESA, and SES
  • 00:01:36 – Career path from theoretical physics to sustainability leadership in space
  • 00:03:27 – Unique features of Europe’s sustainability approach in the space sector
  • 00:05:12 – “Sustainability by design” and its implications for satellite development
  • 00:07:15 – Earth observation as a growing priority: 33% of ESA budget allocation
  • 00:08:24 – “Without being sustainable in space, we have no business model”
  • 00:09:11 – Lifecycle assessments and vendor requirements in satellite design
  • 00:11:42 – Competitive edge or hindrance? ESG’s role in European private space ventures
  • 00:13:09 – ESG as a long-term opportunity, not a barrier, to growth
  • 00:14:53 – The shift from ESG as box-ticking to data-driven decision-making
  • 00:16:06 – Gaps in reporting standards tailored to the space industry
  • 00:19:41 – Wish list for improving sustainability governance in the space ecosystem
  • 00:24:25 – "The wish list is not to have these discussions after decisions have been made..."
  • 00:25:27 – “Once we see the concept of sustainability by design take place more and more...”

If you are interested in a behind-the-scenes look at the purpose and creation of this podcast, please watch a quick look on our YouTube Channel. 

About Exponential Academy

With a vision to drive meaningful change, Exponential Academy emerged from a deep commitment to the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Recognizing the transformative power of exponential technologies, the academy harnesses these innovations to create a ripple effect across industries. Their goal is to align businesses with the global sustainability agenda while leveraging cutting-edge solutions to meet the challenges of our time. Learn more about Exponential Academy at exponentialacademy.org.

Last updated on April 23, 2025