Alan Raw

Space Sector

Space is not separate from Earth

It is an extension of our ecological, technological, and social systems.

My work sits where science meets story. Where complex systems must become something people can understand, question, and take responsibility for.

With a background in journalism, sustainability strategy, and community practice, I work across the space sector to help translate technical ambition into meaningful, accountable futures.

What I Do

I work in space sustainability, and public engagement, with a focus on:

  • Sustainability in space systems: Supporting organisations to think beyond orbital debris and consider full lifecycle environmental impact.
  • Community and stakeholder engagement: Designing and facilitating conversations between engineers, policymakers, communities, and creatives.
  • Science storytelling and translation: Making Earth observation, climate, and space infrastructure into things people can understand and engage with.
  • Creative engagement and STEAM practice: Using storytelling, writing, and participatory approaches to widen access to space science and futures thinking.

Current Work

  • Earth Observation for Natural Capital: Working with regional partners around the Humber and East Yorkshire Coast, to connect EO capabilities with real-world ecological and planning outcomes.
  • Consultancy with Optimal Cities & Local Authorities: Community engagement and sustainability strategy for climate resilience, ecology, and urban development initiatives.
  • Mentoring for The Ascend 2 Space Mission Supporting emerging professionals entering the space sector, with support from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
  • RSA Space Network: Co-founder, Speaker and contributor, exploring the social, ethical, and environmental dimensions of space activity.

Book: To Sustainability and Beyond

A Practical Guide to Environmental Responsibility in the Space Sector

Written in response to the growing gap between technical definitions of “space sustainability” and broader environmental responsibility, this guide explores sustainability across the full lifecycle of space activity, from design and launch through to operation and end-of-life.

It combines practical tools for organisations with a wider call for transparency, accountability, and systems thinking in the sector.

(See My Books page for details)

Speaking & Sector Contribution

I speak across industry, policy, and public forums on sustainability, systems thinking, and the human dimensions of space:

  • Space Unites 2026
  • UK Tech Week 2025
  • Space Tech Assembly 2025
  • UK EONS 2024
  • Many other invited talks and workshops

Previous Roles

  • Former CEO, Galactic ESG.
  • Co-Founder and Former Director & Chief Sustainability Officer at Pan Galactic (multi-award-winning enterprise), UK SpaceTech StartUp of the Year 2024.
  • Former BBC Engineer & Producer 21 years

A Note on Approach

The space sector is increasingly calling for more creativity, broader participation, and deeper public engagement.

My work responds to that call, not by simplifying the science, but by making space for people within it.

Because the future of space is not just a technical question.

It is a cultural one.

My Computer Science Background:

I designed websites during the dot com boom in the 90s and worked on early streaming digital television technology for independent companies and the BBC on the Red Button’s first on-demand content. I co-developed apps for festivals and tourism and became an early adopter of blockchain technology. I was an IT, Communications & Media Tech Tutor for many years, teaching for BBC Learn Xpress, The WEA, Job Centre Plus, FE Colleges and ITITC. Empowering people to access creative technology to elevate their lives and well-being, while striving to find sustainable solutions to existing technology. I most recently built a platform for Biodiversity Net Gain compliance, with an Earth Observation evidence uploader, for LedgerLayer Technology

I am also a Director of The Association of Sustainability Practitioners, responsible for Innovation & Technology.

I am also a STEM Learning Ambassador, a member of The Coders Guild, and a Judge for the Innovate North Awards.

I have trained on the SALHUB space education programme , with the Royal Institute of Navigation, and on Tracks To Space with the International Space University. And I was joint winner of the UK Space Agency Accelerator 2023 Venture Quest Competition.

Work With Me

I collaborate with organisations, networks, and projects exploring the future of space, sustainability, and public engagement.

If you’re looking to:

  • Bring environmental responsibility into space systems
  • Engage communities and stakeholders in complex technical work
  • Translate science into meaningful public narratives
  • Explore creative approaches to space futures

Then feel free to get in touch.

(Link to Contact Page)