Abstract for: A Policy Framework for Space Debris Management: Evaluating the Feasibility of a Space Environmental Tax

Space debris accumulation threatens long-term space sustainability. Traditional mitigation methods, such as collision avoidance and Active Debris Removal (ADR), face financial and technical barriers. This study examines the feasibility of a Space Environmental Tax (SET) to internalize environmental costs and incentivize responsible space operations. By integrating economic and policy approaches, the research aims to provide a sustainable framework for managing space debris and contribute to global space governance discussions. A system dynamics model evaluates SET’s impact on orbital sustainability. The model incorporates satellite launches, debris accumulation, taxation, and subsidies for ADR. Simulations compare scenarios with and without SET, analyzing its influence on space industry dynamics. The study also examines dynamic tax rate adjustments based on orbital congestion, assessing economic effects on satellite operators and policy implications for sustainable space development. Simulations show that SET effectively reduces debris accumulation by discouraging excessive satellite launches and funding ADR. Dynamic tax adjustments improve orbital sustainability by responding to debris levels. Financial incentives promote private-sector investment in debris removal technologies. While launch costs increase, SET ensures controlled space industry growth, balancing economic and environmental concerns. The findings suggest that economic policies can complement technological solutions for long-term space debris management. SET offers a viable economic tool for sustainable space debris management. Unlike purely technological solutions, it introduces a financial mechanism to regulate space activities. International collaboration is essential for an effective global taxation framework. Future research should refine legal frameworks, enhance collision risk modeling, and incorporate real-time debris monitoring data to improve policy effectiveness. A well-designed SET system can ensure responsible space operations and long-term orbital sustainability. for English proofreading