'If we can make a space station fly, we can save the planet': An astronaut's view on protecting the Earth - CNN

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: What does the Earth look like from "out there?"

Pesquet: When you look at the Earth from the space station, it's absolutely magical.

Crucially, we have to manage our limited resources onboard the space station.

And so the way we deal with everything on board the space station gives us techniques that we can apply on Earth because the situation is parallel.

I think the people on Earth can learn a great deal about how space technology deals with water, how we recycle water, how we recycle air oxygen.

CNN: Does it take its toll on family life when you're away in space for several months?

Pesquet: It's not easy for us being up there, and it's not easy for the people we leave behind.

I think it's the nightmare of all the astronauts, that something happens to their families on Earth while they're away.

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I believe there's an element of selfishness in me going to space because it's a fantastic magical experience.

It's not easy, but I think it's a good thing to do.

CNN: As a climate advocate, do you think about the environmental cost of space travel?

I'm going to space in a rocket, how does that impact the environment?"

Yes, space travel produces some CO2, and it is not entirely environmentally friendly.

So space travel is a necessary evil.

CNN: Since you have returned from the ISS, what are your hopes for the future protection of our planet.