Deep-sea mining is emerging as a significant topic, particularly with actions taken by the Trump administration aiming to open international waters for commercial mining. This initiative could challenge existing international regulations concerning the rights to ocean resources, something designated as a “common heritage of humankind.”
Concerns arise regarding the impact of potentially rushing to mine the deep sea, a largely uncharted area of the Earth. As various scientific studies and explorations suggest, many species remain undocumented, highlighting the ecological mysteries of the ocean floor. Existing research indicates that deep-sea mining activities could disrupt marine life due to sediment displacement, noise pollution, and other factors, leading to irreversible damage.
The International Seabed Authority (ISA) has been active in managing and regulating resource extraction from the seabed, having established guidelines under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. While over 160 countries have ratified this convention, the United States has not. This creates a complex legal situation as mining companies contemplate operations in areas like the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, which is considered a mineral-rich section of the Pacific Ocean.
The push for deep-sea mining is often justified by the growing demand for critical minerals used in lithium-ion batteries, essential for renewable energy technologies. Proponents argue that mining underwater would mitigate the environmental impacts associated with land-based mining practices. However, more than 30 countries advocate for a moratorium on deep-sea mining, emphasizing the need for a more thorough understanding of its ecological consequences before proceeding.
As negotiations and regulatory discussions develop, critical questions persist: What safeguards can be established to prevent potential environmental disasters associated with deep-sea mining? And who will assume liability for any ecological harm that might result from these activities?
Source: https://www.theverge.com/the-stepback-newsletter/763871/deep-sea-mining-happening-again