UN's Seabed Regulator Set to Resume Negotiations, Could Enable Deep Sea Mining

Jace Dela Cruz, Tech Times 05 July 2023, 07:07 am

The International Seabed Authority (ISA), the UN's regulatory body responsible for the world's ocean floor, is gearing up to resume negotiations that could potentially pave the way for deep-sea mining, including the extraction of critical materials for the green energy transition, according to a report by AP.

After years of negotiations, the authority is now at a crucial juncture where it will soon need to start accepting mining permit applications. This development has raised concerns regarding the potential impacts on marine ecosystems and deep-sea habitats.

(Photo: alicia3690 from Pixabay)

All About Deep Sea Mining

Deep-sea mining refers to the process of extracting valuable minerals and resources from the seabed in the depths of the ocean. It involves the exploration, extraction, and recovery of minerals, metals, and precious resources found in underwater areas, such as the ocean floor or subsea deposits.

The deep sea mining process typically involves the use of specialized equipment and technologies designed to withstand the extreme conditions of the deep ocean. Various methods can be employed, including hydraulic suction, dredging, or the use of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to extract mineral deposits.

The primary focus of deep sea mining is often on minerals and metals that are scarce on land or in high demand for industrial purposes.

These include valuable resources such as copper, manganese, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements. Additionally, precious minerals like gold, silver, and platinum may also be targeted for extraction.

Environmental Concerns

Advocates of deep sea mining argue that it can provide access to untapped mineral resources, reducing dependence on land-based mining and potentially meeting the growing demand for minerals as industries expand.

They also suggest that deep-sea mining could contribute to technological advancements and economic development.

However, deep-sea mining also raises significant environmental concerns. The extraction process can disrupt fragile deep-sea ecosystems that are home to unique and often unknown species.

The removal of minerals from the seabed may result in the destruction of habitats and the loss of biodiversity. Additionally, the potential release of sediment plumes and chemical pollutants during mining operations can have adverse effects on marine life.

Law of the Seas

It is worth noting that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas governs the high seas and international ocean floor, while individual countries manage maritime territories and exclusive economic zones.

The treaty considers the seabed and its mineral resources as the "common heritage of mankind," requiring management that benefits humanity and protects marine environments.

Mining companies collaborate with countries to obtain exploration licenses, with most activity occurring in the Clarion-Clipperton Fracture Zone.

The International Seabed Authority faces pressure to establish regulations for deep-sea mining by July 2023, and its Legal and Technical Commission will discuss the draft mining code in early July.

If all goes according to plan, mining operations under ISA regulations could potentially commence in late 2024 or 2025. However, mining applications need to be evaluated, and thorough environmental impact assessments must be conducted before any mining activities can take place.