You can download a DRM-free copy of this standard here.
What is BSI Flex 1969 v2.0 about?
This BSI Flex, which has been updated to reflect valuable industry feedback, provides guidance to enhance the sustainability of outer space activities by helping organizations to limit environmental impacts, and safeguard the long-term use of outer space for the benefit of humanity.
It covers the full lifecycle from design and manufacturing through to launch, operation and disposal.
The standard, along with BSI Flex 1971 v2.0 for sustainable space launch, is sponsored by the UK Space Agency, and backed by the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.
What does it cover?
This BSI Flex provides a framework comprised of 10 space sustainability principles. Three of these principles cover early and late lifecycle stage, four relate to in-orbit operations and three tackle specific objectives for space and earth environments.
This BSI Flex does not cover safety, security, insurance or finance.
Key updates compared with version 1 include a revised scope and new principle for in-orbit servicing, assembly and manufacturing (ISAM).
Why does it matter?
The rapid growth in space activity, including a proliferation of commercial launches and satellites, has increased the importance of sustainable approaches and protecting the environment.
The space sustainability principles standard promotes measures to limit environmental impacts—such as space debris, waste, and pollution—while also supporting efforts to remedy the damage already done to the orbital environment and outer space.
BSI Flex 1969 v2.0 provides a unifying framework for these activities, enabling cross-sector collaboration and fostering a shared understanding of responsible space activity management. By aligning your practices with this standard, you will help protect the long-term usability of space and demonstrate your commitment to sustainable space operations.
Who is it for?
This BSI Flex is of use to those with an interest or role in space system planning, development or operations, including satellite operators, manufacturers, launch service providers, spaceports, range providers, payload providers, and their supply chains.
It might also be of interest to the space insurance and finance sectors.