The French space agency CNES is currently facing prosecution for environmental damages caused during unauthorized activities at the Kourou space center in French Guiana, which have included the destruction of protected species and habitats since 2022.

This case highlights the ongoing tension between environmental preservation and economic development, with legal proceedings still underway as of late 2024.

An environmental expert has estimated the ecological damage at approximately €9.7 million, and the site’s restoration is expected to take decades, underscoring the severity of the ecological impact.

Despite being designated as an 'environmental sanctuary' covering 650 square kilometers, the area has suffered illegal activities that threaten its rich biodiversity, including endemic species and a high concentration of jaguars.

The unauthorized work involved redevelopment of the Diamant launch pad and installation of a photovoltaic park, both of which allegedly harmed at least four protected species, such as the rare leptodactylus ocellatus frog.

CNES justified some actions by citing economic pressures, including urgent project deadlines financed by the France Relance 2030 plan, which pushed for rapid development of space infrastructure.

Legal proceedings have considered a proposed judicial agreement with fines of €10,000 and damages of €20,000, but this was rejected in 2024, and the case may now proceed to trial with potential charges of ecocide.

Authorities, including the French Biodiversity Office and local services, repeatedly warned CNES that their activities were illegal, but these warnings were ignored, leading to significant environmental damage.