PhD Candidate in Economics – University of Málaga, Spain
Specializing in Space Economics, Orbital Debris, Resource and Environmental Economics
Job Market Candidate 2025–2026
About
I am a PhD Candidate in Economics at the University of Málaga, Spain, specializing in space economics, orbital debris, and energy and resource economics. My work integrates macroeconomic modeling with sustainability challenges, addressing both terrestrial and orbital systems.
Recent research experience includes:
Visiting Research Fellow, University of Colorado Boulder (April–June 2025), collaborating with Professor Daniel Kaffine on space-economy modeling.
Development of integrated assessment models for orbital debris mitigation policies.
My research focuses on:
Understanding how orbital and Earth-based capital complement each other in production and growth.
Analyzing the economic and environmental impacts of satellite operations and orbital debris accumulation.
Designing policy tools, including active debris removal strategies and Pigouvian incentives.
I aim to provide insights for sustainable resource management on Earth and in outer space, combining rigorous quantitative modeling with practical policy relevance.
Research
Job Market Paper
DISE: A Dynamic Integrated Space-Economy Model for Orbital Debris Mitigation Policy Evaluation
Authors: Bongers, Aneli; Ortiz, Cesar; Torres, Jose Luis
Published in: Environmental and Resource Economics (2025) Read Paper
Other Papers in Preparation
Bongers, A., Ortiz, C. & Torres, J. (2025). Orbital Pollution and Optimal Active Debris Removal Policies under Technological and ASAT Shocks
Abstract: This paper studies optimal Active Debris Removal (ADR) policies as an ex-post abatement policy to tackle the detrimental impact of space debris on social welfare. The paper presents a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model that incorporates both Earth and outer space. Within a competitive decentralized economy, households and firms merely adjust their behavior in response to the harm caused by space debris. However, a centralized economy may choose to invest in de-pollution measures to optimize social welfare. The model considers an ex-post abatement policy involving the removal of space debris to mitigate its negative consequences for the fast-growing satellite industry. The analysis also explores a decentralized economy featuring an international space authority, which maximizes social welfare by charging Pigouvian taxes to finance de-pollution strategies. We analyze ADR policies under three types of shocks: a total factor productivity shock, an investment-specific technological shock to satellites, and an anti-satellite military shock.
Keywords: Outer space; Orbital debris; Satellites; Abatement cost; Active Debris Removal policies
JEL Classification: D62; E22; H23; Q53; Q58
Bongers, A., & Ortiz, C. (2025). Complementarity in Orbit: The Macroeconomic Role of Space Infrastructure
Abstract: This paper presents a theoretical framework for analyzing the complementarity between Earth-based capital and orbital capital in global production. Although satellites have become essential for a wide range of terrestrial systems, including logistics, energy, communications, and agriculture, existing macroeconomic models rarely treat them as explicit productive input. Building on the Dynamic Integrated Space Economy (DISE) model, we develop a dual-capital neoclassical growth framework that distinguishes between terrestrial and orbital capital. By modelling these capital stocks as technologically complementary, we introduce a novel approach to assess how orbital infrastructure contributes to long-run economic growth on Earth. The joint production function considers the mutual dependence between satellites and Earth-based systems, while a debris dynamics component captures the gradual decline in orbital capital productivity due to rising congestion and collision risk. By formally incorporating space infrastructure into growth theory, this paper provides the first analytical basis for understanding how orbital assets shape long-term output through their interaction with terrestrial capital. The model offers a theoretical foundation for future empirical research and advances the conceptual development of space-economic analysis.
Keywords: Outer space; Capital Complementarity; Capital; Satellites; Integrated Assessment Model
I have taught Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Principles of Economics, Business Statistics, and Managerial Economics across multiple institutions (2011–2025). My courses incorporate simulation games and virtual reality equipment to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
Thompson Rivers University (2017–2025): Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Principles of Economics, Business Statistics, Managerial Economics, simulations & VR
Selkirk College (2021–2023): Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Principles of Economics, online course “Tourism and the Canadian Economy”
NVIT (2019–2020): Macroeconomics, Principles of Marketing
Yorkville University (2017–2019): Microeconomics, Macroeconomics
UAE University (2011–2014): Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Principles of Economics
Vancouver Island University (2008–2010): Urban Economics, Sport Economics, Economics for Tourism, Microeconomics, Business Stats
Universidad de Castilla La Mancha (2003–2005): Economics Statistics, Quality Control, Data Analysis
Research Interests
My research combines environmental, resource, and energy economics with the emerging space economy. I study how technological change and resource constraints affect economic growth and policy design, using tools such as DSGE and Integrated Assessment Models.
Current projects include studying optimal orbital debris removal policies, complementarity between orbital and terrestrial capital, and the environmental and economic impacts of satellite re-entry emissions. My aim is to inform policy for sustainable resource management on Earth and in space.
Teaching Philosophy
I focus on student-centered learning, integrating interactive simulations and virtual reality to enhance understanding of complex economic concepts. I aim to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical application skills in my students, preparing them for academic and professional success.
Recent Presentations
“Enhancing Economics Education through Business Simulation Games,” Gaglardi Teaching Seminar, March 2025
“DISE: A Dynamic Integrated Space-Economy Model for Orbital Debris Mitigation Policy Evaluation,” Canadian Economics Association Conference, May 30, 2025, Montreal (UQAM)
“Orbital Pollution and Optimal Active Debris Removal Policies,” 14th Annual Front Range Energy and Environmental Economics Camp, University of Colorado Boulder, May 16, 2025
