The design and operation of space test, experiments and systems, will minimize or reduce accumulation of space debris consistent with mission requirements and cost effectiveness. NASA and the Department of Defense have issued guidelines governing the design and operation of spacecraft and upper stages to mitigate the growth of the orbital debris population. The Federal Aviation Administration, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Federal Communications Commission also consider orbital debris issues in the licensing process for spacecraft and upper stages under their auspices. A set of draft U.S. Government Orbital Debris Mitigation Standard Practices has been developed. Manufacturers and operators of U.S. spacecraft and upper stages are aware of the hazards of orbital debris and the need to mitigate its growth.
Many firms voluntarily adhere to measures designed to limit the growth of orbital debris.
In addition, since 1994 orbital debris has been a topic of assessment and discussion in the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the United Nations' Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space.