Est. 2min 09-09-2003 (updated: 07-11-2012 ) Euractiv is part of the Trust Project >>> Languages: Français | DeutschPrint Email Facebook X LinkedIn WhatsApp Telegram The Parliament’s Industry Committee on 9 September adopted its report on the Commission’s Green Paper on space policy, outlining the key issues facing the European space industry. On 9 September, the Parliament’s Industry Committee adopted its report on the Green paper, written by rapporteur Guido Bodrato (EPP). The draft report emphasises the issue of independence of space access, which is considered to be vital for the implementation of a European space policy. In addition to launchers, the ability to develop the space infrastructure is seen to be crucial, since this sector is strategically important for both scientific and application purposes. The report states that it is also necessary to focus on the development of a carrying capability, while recognising that the need for independent access to space can be met by means of a ‘flexible’ response, by using the capabilities of third countries such as Russia on a commercial basis or under cooperation agreements. However, beneficial agreements with international partners depend on a solid technological basis and advanced skills, and trading and market access rules need to be harmonised. Moreover, funding is a key challenge facing the European space industry. The Commission’s aim to double the space budget in ten years and to restore the balance between the civil and security components would still leave the European industry with less than 50 per cent of the resources currently available to the US system. Read more with Euractiv Recommendation time for education policy makersOn 3 September, the Commission released a report gathering briefing papers on the results of EU funded research projects in the field of education. Subscribe now to our newsletter EU Elections Decoded Email Address * Politics Newsletters BackgroundSpace policy has become a crucial component for implementing EU policies, particularly in areas such as sustainable development, environment, transport and information society. Space applications also respond to growing security needs in civilian and defence aspects. Over the last few decades, space policy has been primarily managed at national and intergovernmental level. With the creation of the European Space Agency (ESA)in 1973, the EU has undertaken efforts to consolidate its industrial base and to achieve technological independence, providing it with substantial capacities in the area of launchers and platforms and turning it into a leading player in a highly competitive field. However, the EU's space industry is facing considerable challenges, as the delicate balance between space commerical and public services is coming under pressure in the light of a significant restructuring of the industry worldwide. The present organisation and financing arrangements are in crisis, and the investment gap between European and US spending is widening. In January 2003, the Commission introduced its Green Paper on EU Space Policy, in cooperation with the ESA, in order to launch a debate with national and international organisations, the EU space industry and users, the scientific community and citizens. Numerous stakeholders presented their opinions during a four-month consultation period, a summary of which was published in July 2003. The main focus of the Green Paper is on key issues such as the EU's independent access to space, scientific excellence in this field, the industrial and institutional framework, international co-operation, and environmental and security aspects. TimelineThe Parliament's vote on the report is expected in the October plenary session. The Commission will then issue a White Paper proposing a future strategy for space policy, which will take into account the opinions issued during the consultation process. The Space White Paper is expected to be ready for approval by the Commisison before the end of 2003, and will then be submitted to the Council and the Parliament.
