Deep-sea mining – into the unknown

Ocean 14 Capital

Deep-sea mining – into the unknown
Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

Findings of a recent study in Japan, published in Current Biology, had “large implications” for decision-makers negotiating regulations on proposals for deep-sea mining.

What’s happening? Deep-sea mining, the extraction of valuable metals and minerals from the seabed, has become a topic of intense debate in recent years.

Proponents argue that it holds the key to fulfilling the growing demand for essential elements, such as cobalt and nickel, required for various industries, including the rapidly growing renewables sector and electric vehicles industry.

However, concerns are mounting as scientific studies reveal the detrimental impacts on marine life and ecosystems in the deep sea. Problems arise as the International Seabed Authority (ISA), the governing body commanding the seabed in international waters, is yet to make progress in discussions concerning deep-sea mining regulations.

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