Scotland is leading by example through the sustainable design, manufacture and launch of small satellites to monitor the effects of climate change or provide communications services.

The Minister will expand on that pioneering approach when addressing delegates at 6th Space Tech Expo Europe, taking place in Bremen, on Tuesday during a three-day visit to build international trade and partnership. Mr Lochhead will join a Scottish Development International-led delegation of 23 Scottish businesses and organisations at the leading trade show for the space industry in Europe.

The conference brings together industry representatives, investors and ministers from countries including the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, France and other European countries to showcase technological advances.

Mr Lochhead said: “Scotland’s innovative scientists and engineers lead the way across the space industry; from designing, manufacturing and launching satellites to finding novel uses for the data generated which benefit our people and economy.

“The knowledge produced has never been more important – from tackling deforestation to predicting farms at risk of losing productivity – and we want to collaborate with international partners in this shared and urgent task of addressing climate change.

“Scotland was amongst the first to recognise the need for ethical practices in seizing new opportunities from the increasingly clear window onto our world supplied by satellites.

“Glasgow is the biggest manufacturer of small satellites outside the US and by publishing the first ever Space Sustainability Roadmap we have set out how the sector can help achieve climate change targets.

“I am committed to promoting space as a force for good, in climate monitoring and minimising the environmental impact of manufacturing, launching and disposing of small satellites.”