ABSTRACT
It would be wrong to consider the law of the space environment as something separate, distinct and different from the concepts of terrestrial environmental law. Of its nature space presents exceptional difficulties, but these are not sufficient to require unique concepts. Environmental space law is simply a specialised area of environmental law. A considerable body of international law now deals with environmental matters. It is even argued by some that its basic principles have become customary law. Certainly there are many environmental treaties, declarations and similar documents, and there is relevant debate in the International Law Commission (ILC). However, environmental damage can be caused without the territory, property or personnel of another state being involved. Damage can be done to environmental objects or areas not owned by and beyond jurisdiction of any state. Improvements in satellite earth observation technology have significantly increased the ability to observe and identify environmental problems.
