SWF and Exponential Academy Release “ESG in Space” Podcast Episode 8: A Singaporean Vision for Space Sustainability

Thursday, May 8, 2025

The Secure World Foundation and Exponential Academy are pleased to release Episode 8 of ESG in Space, a podcast series hosted by Nishan Degnarain and Miki Sode that explores the intersection of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles in the space sector.

In this episode, Jonathan Hung, Head of the Office for Space Technology and Industry (OSTIn), shares Singapore’s evolving journey in the space domain—from the establishment of its first satellite ground station in 1971 to launching its national space office in 2013. Singapore’s approach to space development is defined by a keen focus on sustainable economic growth, global connectivity, and technological innovation across key adjacent industries such as aerospace, finance, and maritime sectors.

As a small but highly strategic nation, Singapore has committed to enabling a pro-business, collaborative space environment, serving as both a regional hub and a global bridge for space activity. Jonathan explains how the city-state leverages public-private partnerships to attract foreign and domestic companies alike, positioning Singapore as a launchpad for startups and established players targeting the Asia-Pacific market and beyond.

The conversation also explores Singapore’s core values in space governance: commitment to international norms, peaceful use of space, and support for inclusive and rules-based cooperation. Singapore is actively engaged in multilateral platforms, such as COPUOS and the Artemis Accords, and recently co-hosted workshops with SWF to promote long-term sustainability and space traffic management across the ASEAN region.

Jonathan also discusses OSTIn’s Earth Observation initiative and investments in quantum communications, highlighting Singapore’s focus on real-world space applications in climate monitoring, financial security, and secure data exchange. Finally, the episode underscores Singapore’s drive to cultivate space talent from the ground up—engaging students, researchers, and innovators in a holistic vision for a sustainable and diverse global space economy.

Tune in to discover how Singapore is crafting a purpose-driven space agenda that blends technology, policy, and entrepreneurship to ensure a resilient and inclusive future among the stars

Listen to "ESG in Space" Episode 8 below, on YouTube, or on your preferred podcast streaming platform.

Timestamps for Key Topics

• 00:00:26 – Introduction by Nishan Degrade
• 00:01:06 – Jonathan Hung welcomes the hosts
• 00:04:06 – Discussion on Singapore's role in the space economy
• 00:09:20 – Exploration of core values driving Singapore's space program
• 00:11:20 – Conversation about multilateral relations and space governance
• 00:17:30 – Jonathan discusses regional space platforms and collaborations
• 00:24:16 – Discussion on soft levers, technical exchanges, and data sharing
• 00:28:14 – Conversation about workforce development and capacity building
• 00:31:55 – Concluding remarks about Singapore's space approach

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.