COP30 - South of Scotland: A rising star in the space industry

As global climate conference COP30 gets underway, our Space Delivery Lead Campbell Young reflects on the importance of space technology in ensuring we have a climate resilient future. 

As the world gathers for COP30 to accelerate climate action, the South of Scotland is stepping into the spotlight as a hub of innovation in Earth Observation (EO) and space technology.  

From peatlands to coastlines, the region is transforming data into decisions that shape a climate-resilient future. 

Earth Observation Driving Climate and Nature Resilience 

Scotland’s EO community - spanning universities, SMEs, and public agencies - is pioneering data-driven approaches to monitor and restore natural systems.  

These efforts support real-time policy assessment, funding alignment, and progress tracking toward biodiversity and climate goals. 

In the South of Scotland, EO is being applied to tackle real-world challenges: 

  • Natural Capital Monitoring

  • Biodiversity Enhancement 

  • Carbon Sequestration 

  • Peatland & Forestry Restoration 

  • AgriTech & Soil Health 

  • Waters, Rivers & Oceans 

These initiatives are helping the region contribute meaningfully to Scotland’s national EO ecosystem and turning satellite data into actionable insights for restoration, planning, and resilience. 

A Living Lab for Innovation: Natural Capital Innovation Zone 

At the heart of this transformation is the Natural Capital Innovation Zone (NCIZ), - a nationally recognised designation which was established to accelerate solutions to the twin global challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change in the South of Scotland.  

NCIZ is a working model of how space data can drive local and national change.  

Investing in innovative natural capital projects, responsible and sustainable investment opportunities, working collaboratively with partners and developing scalable solutions that deliver a wellbeing economy. 

Driving economic opportunity through innovation  

As the South of Scotland strengthens its role in the space and EO sectors, the region is not only contributing to climate resilience but also unlocking new economic potential.  

Our focus on innovation and collaboration is helping to create high-value jobs, attract investment, and support the growth of local businesses.

Initiatives like the Satellite Data Challenge and the Borderlands Deep Tech Accelerator Hub are designed to stimulate entrepreneurship and build a skilled workforce equipped for the future of space and environmental technology.  

By positioning the South of Scotland as a testbed for scalable solutions, SOSE is ensuring that climate action goes hand-in-hand with inclusive economic growth, benefiting communities, businesses, and ecosystems alike. 

What is happening on the ground? 

The South of Scotland has a variety of exciting space-related developments: 

  • Clatteringshaws Observatory with support from organisations such as SOSE, Clatteringshaws is emerging as a key site for EO and environmental monitoring as well as star-gazing. 

The South of Scotland is proving that space isn’t just about satellites – it is about solutions.  

By integrating EO into land, water, and urban systems, the region will help Scotland meet its climate and biodiversity targets while building resilience from the ground up.

As COP30 unfolds, the South of Scotland stands ready to lead with innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to climate-positive change.