According to researchers at UCL, the total number of rocket launches has increased from 114 in 2020 to 329 in 2025.
What do rockets pollute?
Rocket-fired kerosene releases black carbon particles that remain suspended in the atmosphere and contribute to the atmospheric pollution that is much more potent than dust emissions. The rocket launches / launching and reentry of orbital satellites contribute to the formation of substances that generate ozone-reducing reactions.
What is the ozone problem?
At the moment, it is very small, with future launches expected to reduce the ozone layer by approximately 0.02%. Similarly, by 2029, the projected loss will be equal to 2% for regulated emissions, while at a maximum of 2000 launches annually, it may reach 3%.
What can be done?
According to InsideClimate News, pollution from the uncontrolled number of launches is harmful to other countries, and thus one should pay attention to the usage of eco-friendly fuel and the calculation of emissions when making promises concerning net zero.
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