Utilization of Natural Resources in Outer Space: Social License to Operate as an Alternative Source of Both Legality and Legitimacy
2020
Abstract
In recent years, utilization of space resources has become an increasingly important topic. However, insufficient legal framework effectively discourages private investors from making any substantial investments in extraterrestrial mining.
Although there are several ongoing initiatives aimed at establishing an international legal framework, either under the auspices of the UN COPUOS or beyond (The Hague International Space Resources Governance Working Group), the slow pace of these international deliberations often encourages private companies to start thinking about alternatives sources of legitimacy.