Abreu Advogados signs up to the European Space Agency’s Zero Debris Charter

Abreu Advogados has become the first Portuguese law firm to sign up to the European Space Agency’s Zero Debris Charter, an international commitment aimed at eliminating the creation of space debris by 2030. The signing took place on 18 November 2025 during the Space Tech Expo Europe in Bremen, Germany.

The Zero Debris Charter sets out guiding principles designed to minimise the creation of new debris, mitigate the impact of existing debris and raise awareness of the risks associated with intensive use of outer space. The commitment also defines key technical targets for 2030, including the safe deactivation of satellites, the improvement of orbital conditions, collision prevention, the elimination of internal explosions and the prohibition of intentional releases of debris.

By joining this initiative, Abreu joins Portuguese entities such as the Portuguese Space Agency, Critical Software, Neuraspace and SPACEO Lda., and becomes part of the small group of European signatories from the legal sector, currently being the third European law firm to formalise its adherence.

The signing was carried out by João Lupi, on behalf of Abreu Advogados. This moment highlights the growing importance of specialised legal advice in the field of Space and Satellites and reinforces the Firm’s commitment to international practices of responsibility, innovation and sustainability.

The Zero Debris Community brings together more than 200 entities from 33 countries, including space agencies, technology companies, academic institutions and organisations dedicated to space safety and sustainability.