Costing the Earth: putting money into Space

Be part of the Next Generation in Cost and Carbon Estimating

European Space Agency (ESA) has included important environmental and sustainability objectives in its Agenda 2025.  On one hand ESA aims at increasing the contribution of its projects to the sustainable development of society, and on the other hand the Agency wants to improve its environmental footprint and contribute to the climate neutrality of Europe by 2030.

The very ambitious objective of reducing ESA greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 46% by 2030 compared to the 2019 baseline has been set against science-based targets to contribute to the Paris Agreement objective of containing the increase of the surface temperature of the planet by 1,5°C by 2100.

As evaluating the carbon footprint for the Space sector is fundamentally important given the increasing importance of climate change. So, how can space projects understand their carbon footprint given that aerospace, and space, cost estimating remains a blend of art and science, given that many variables drive mission costs, and that many space projects are one-of-a-kind R&D ventures. Also, historical data suffers from cloudiness, interdependencies, and small sample sizes.

Let’s talk real change. How we can help.

Decarbonisation of the space sector, we need to accurately evaluate the carbon footprint of the entire sector, it is fundamental to mobilise the entire space supply chain.

To support Space East members we are providing free carbon estimating software via our Technology Partner, Sterling DCS, to universities and Level 6 Apprenticeships in the UK and Ireland free of all charges (including licenses, hosting and technical support).

What will you learn? These learning outcomes we will deliver.

Upon completion of the module on cost and carbon estimation utilising an industry-standard estimating package, students should be able to:

• Master Estimating Software: Navigate and proficiently use industry-standard estimating software for accurate cost and carbon estimation.
• Understand Estimating Principles: Demonstrate a solid understanding of fundamental principles and techniques involved in cost estimation, including labour, materials, overhead, and carbon footprint considerations.
• Apply Industry Standards: Apply relevant industry standards and best practices in cost and carbon estimation to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Develop Cost Estimates: Create comprehensive and realistic cost estimates for projects of varying scales, considering diverse factors such as project scope changes and market fluctuations.
• Optimize Carbon Footprint Assessments: Effectively utilise the estimating package to optimise and assess the carbon footprint of projects, considering environmental impact and sustainability goals.
• Understand Project Risk: Identify and analyse potential risks and uncertainties associated with cost and carbon estimation and develop strategies for risk mitigation.
• Interpret Estimation Results: Interpret estimation results, communicate findings, and make informed recommendations based on the cost and carbon assessments.
• Collaborate in a Team Environment: Work collaboratively in a team setting, integrating cost and carbon estimation processes with other project management aspects and team members’ contributions.
• Adapt to Industry Changes: Stay current with industry trends, technological advancements, and updates in estimating software, and adapt their skills accordingly.
• Ethical Considerations: Demonstrate ethical decision-making in cost estimation, considering the implications of financial and environmental decisions on various stakeholders.
• Communicate Effectively: Communicate estimation results clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, using appropriate documentation and presentation techniques.
• Continuous Improvement: Recognize the importance of continuous improvement in the field of cost and carbon estimation and actively seek opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.

These learning outcomes are designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the practical application of cost and carbon estimation using industry-standard software.

What is included? Summary at-a-glance.

• Estimating Software
  • BoQ and Cost Plan Development
  • Common Cost Breakdown structures

• Hosting
• Technical Support (Academic Staff not Students)
• Basic database to support Student use

Credit: DADA Enterprises 

About DADA Enterprises

DADA’s ISO9001 and Six Sigma certified consultancy service has been repeatedly recognised by Consultancy.uk. DADA were shortlisted in the Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster (BECBC) 2023 Annual Awards, in their maiden year of membership, by National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) in the “Innovation and Creativity” category. They showed how to create a SMART Construction platform by turning project data into predictive intelligence to create a “risk radar”.

If you are interested in taking up the offer please contact: info@big-dada.co.uk