That’s a wrap on this season of ESG in Space!

Across eight episodes, we've looked into how sustainability, governance, and innovation shape the evolving space economy. So, what’s changed? Quite a bit. And what matters now more than ever? In this season wrap-up, Ian Christensen joins hosts Miki Sode and Nishan Degnarain to reflect on the insights, shifts, and standout moments from the journey so far.

“Maybe we don’t talk as much about ESG as a lens, but some of the driving considerations behind that, like coordination, risk management, and trust, are still really relevant.” — Ian Christensen, Secure World Foundation

Recorded June 2, 2025

"A Singaporean Vision for Space Sustainability" featuring Jonathan Hung, Head of Singapore’s National Space Office

The Secure World Foundation (SWF) and Exponential Academy are proud to present Episode 8 of the “ESG in Space” podcast series, spotlighting an insightful conversation with Jonathan Hung, Head of the Office for Space Technology and Industry (OSTIn)—Singapore’s National Space Office.

In this episode, Jonathan 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.

Recorded May 2, 2025

From Space to the Last Mile: Turning Satellite Data into Climate Resilience with Kevin Stein

In Episode 8 of ESG in Space, hosts Nishan Degnarain and Miki Sode are joined by Kevin Stein, CEO and co-founder of Delos, a wildfire-focused insurance company powered by satellite data. Drawing on his background in aerospace engineering and spacecraft design, Kevin shares how his team pivoted from space hardware development to creating practical insurance solutions that directly address the growing risk of climate-induced wildfires in California.

This conversation looks into how space-based Earth observation can be operationalized into tangible products for high-risk communities, and what it takes to bridge the gap between the space sector and everyday users. Kevin also discusses why diversified data streams and cross-sector communication are critical to building resilience in both space and ground industries.

Recorded April 2025

Designing Sustainability Into the Space Sector: Insights from Europe

In Episode 7 of ESG in Space, hosts Nishan Degnarain and Miki Sode sit down with sustainability strategist Sabrina Alam, whose cross-sector work spans theoretical physics, government policy, and commercial space. Currently at KPMG Luxembourg, Sabrina shares a deep dive into how Europe is embedding ESG principles into its space infrastructure, from satellite design to lifecycle assessments and regulatory policy.

This episode explores Europe’s proactive stance on sustainability by design, the impact of mandatory ESG reporting frameworks like CSRD, and how these policies are reshaping both public and private actors across the space value chain. Sabrina also discusses how European operators balance innovation and competitiveness with sustainability mandates, and how these approaches could influence global norms.

If you're curious about the intersection of sustainability, policy, and economic resilience in the space sector, especially through a European lens, this episode is essential listening.

Recorded March 2025

Harnessing Satellite Data and AI for Global Impact with Bruno Sánchez-Andrade Nuño

Secure World Foundation is pleased to announce the fifth episode of ESG in Space, a podcast series in collaboration with Exponential Academy, hosted by Nishan Degnarain and Miki Sode. This conversation features Bruno Sánchez-Andrade Nuño, Executive Director and Founder of Clay.

In this episode, Bruno shares how open data, satellite imagery, and artificial intelligence can work together to power social good. He walks through the mission behind Clay, a nonprofit platform that uses AI to make Earth observation data more accessible and actionable. The conversation explores everything from carbon monitoring and disaster response to the ethics of data sourcing and the future governance of AI tools in space applications.

Listen to ESG in Space Episode 5 here or on our YouTube Channel to discover how transparency, equity, and innovation are reshaping the role of space-based technologies for global sustainability.

Recorded October 7, 2024

Exploring Life Beyond Earth and the Role of Inclusive Governance with Bill Diamond

Secure World Foundation is pleased to announce the release of the fourth episode of ESG in Space, a podcast series in collaboration with Exponential Academy, hosted by Nishan Degnarain and Miki Sode. This episode features a wide-ranging conversation with Bill Diamond, President and CEO of the SETI Institute.

In this episode, Bill shares his perspective on the evolving space economy, the importance of scientific research in astrobiology, and how space-based platforms support our understanding of life on Earth. He also addresses the need for inclusive governance frameworks in space exploration—highlighting lessons from Earth-based examples like Antarctica and emphasizing the importance of engaging underrepresented voices in the future of space policy.

Listen to ESG in Space Episode 4 here or on our YouTube Channel for an exploration of how science, sustainability, and equity intersect in our journey beyond Earth.

Recorded December 18, 2024

Exploring NASA, SpaceX, and the Evolution of Space Ventures with Abhi Tripathi

Secure World Foundation is thrilled to announce the release of the fifth episode of "ESG in Space," a podcast series in collaboration with Exponential Academy, hosted by Nishan Degnarain and Miki Sode. This episode features a fascinating discussion with Abhi Tripathi, Director of Mission Operations at UC Berkeley's Space Sciences Lab.

In this episode, Abhi discusses his journey through the space sector, from his early days at NASA to key roles at SpaceX, and now leading mission operations at UC Berkeley. He shares his unique insights on the transition of space activities from government-dominated initiatives to vibrant commercial enterprises and discusses the critical role of government and military funding in nurturing the nascent commercial space industry.

Listen to "ESG in Space" Episode 3 here or on our YouTube Channel to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and potential of commercial space ventures.

Recorded January 29, 2025

Behind the Scenes of ESG in Space: The Making of a Space Sustainability Podcast

Take a trip with us into the backstory of the "ESG in Space" podcast series in this exclusive behind-the-scenes episode. Hosted by Nishan Degnarain and Miki Sode, this unique session features insights from Ian Christensen of Secure World Foundation, one of the key sponsors and collaborators in the series.

This conversation sheds light on the motivations, challenges, and aspirations behind creating a podcast dedicated to exploring Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues in the space sector. Discover how the series aims to foster dialogue on space sustainability, the intersection of the space economy with societal benefits, and the roles different stakeholders play in shaping this narrative.

From discussions about space debris management to responsible actions within the space economy, this episode offers a candid look at the thoughts and processes that drive the content of "ESG in Space."

Navigating the Expanding Universe of the Space Economy with Karen Jones

Join us for the second episode of "ESG in Space," hosted by Nishan Degnarain and Miki Sode in partnership with Exponential Academy. This episode features Karen L. Jones, a senior project leader and space economist at The Aerospace Corporation, who brings deep insights into the evolving space economy. Karen discusses the critical role of satellite technology in supporting various industries—from telecommunications to environmental monitoring—and its convergence with future technological advancements like 6G networks.

In this conversation, Karen explores the complexities of space economy integration, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices as the number of satellites rapidly increases. She addresses the challenges of space debris management and the need for regulatory coherence to ensure safe and sustainable space operations.

Tune in to learn how space technology is not just about reaching new heights but also about grounding these advancements in sustainable practices that can support Earth's environmental and technological ecosystems.

Recorded Dec 6, 2024

Welcome to "ESG in Space," a groundbreaking series brought to you by the Secure World Foundation and Exponential Academy.

In this inaugural episode, join hosts Nishan Deeran and Mickey S.H. as they engage with James Cemmell, a seasoned space industry expert with a 17-year tenure shaping the sector’s landscape. James explores the transformation of space from a government-dominated realm to a vibrant arena of private innovation and discusses the vital role of satellites in societal advancements across the globe.

With insights spanning from orbital mechanics to international collaborations, this episode offers a deep dive into the mechanisms that ensure space remains a sustainable and accessible frontier for future generations.

Tune in to explore how environmental, social, and governance factors intersect in the ever-evolving expanse of space.

Recorded October 7, 2024