# ESA Zero Debris Charter

**Type:** Voluntary governance framework  
**Organizer:** European Space Agency (ESA)  
**Domain:** Orbital debris mitigation  

## Overview

The ESA Zero Debris Charter is a voluntary framework for orbital debris mitigation with principles-based commitments rather than specific operational constraints.

## Key Commitments

- No release of harmful debris
- Zero uncontrolled reentries above certain risk thresholds
- Passivation after mission completion

## Signatories

- Amazon Project Kuiper (joined 2025-2026)
- Growing EU/ESA operator base

## Comparison to Other Frameworks

The ESA Zero Debris Charter is more principles-based than the FCC's five-year deorbit rule (binding operational constraint) and represents an alternative to the WEF Clear Orbit Secure Future guidelines.

## Timeline

- **2025-2026** — Amazon Project Kuiper joins as signatory
- **2026-01** — SpaceNews notes Amazon's participation in ESA charter while declining WEF guidelines, revealing selective governance strategy