RIYADH: Reducing the amount of debris orbiting Earth in space requires more international cooperation, the acting CEO of the Saudi Space Agency said at a Riyadh event on Monday.

Speaking at the opening address of the Space Debris Conference 2026, Dr. Mohammed Al-Tamimi highlighted the importance of tackling waste orbiting the planet.

Al-Tamimi said: “Addressing space debris challenges requires strengthened international cooperation and the development of innovative, effective solutions that reduce risks and ensure the sustainability of the space environment.”

Near-Earth space was experiencing a rapid increase in the number of orbiting objects that posed growing challenges to the safety of space operations and long-term sustainability of orbital activities, Al-Tamimi added.

Up to $42 billion of economic losses could be caused by space debris by 2035, according to a paper published by the Centre for Space Futures in collaboration with the World Economic Forum during Monday’s conference.

The two-day event in Riyadh brings together experts, decision-makers, and representatives from 75 countries, including governments, international organizations and specialized space companies.

It aims to protect space activities and orbital infrastructure while supporting the growth of the global space economy, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Held with the support of the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs and in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union, the conference highlights the importance of international cooperation and effective governance frameworks to mitigate space debris risks and ensure a safe, sustainable space environment.

The first edition, held in Riyadh in 2024, attracted participants from more than 50 countries, along with international organizations and global companies.