Unveiling the Mysteries of Deep-Sea Mining
Deep-sea mining is a controversial topic that has been gaining attention in recent years due to its potential environmental impacts. The process involves retrieving mineral deposits from the ocean floor using destructive methods such as dredging, drilling, and hydraulic pumps. These methods disrupt and harm marine life and their ecosystems.
The Clarion-Clipperton Zone, a 1.7 million square mile area of the Pacific Ocean, is a focal point of deep-sea mining due to its polymetallic nodules rich in minerals such as copper, nickel, manganese, cobalt, rare earth elements, and other precious metals used in zero-carbon technology components. This area is the subject of 17 exploration contracts totaling roughly 621,371 square miles. However, it is also home to more than 5,000 recently discovered marine species.
While some small-scale exploratory mining has taken place to test equipment, no commercial mining of the seabed has occurred yet. Some mining companies and national governments have plans to start mining in the next few years, pending regulation by the International Seabed Authority (ISA).
The ISA has been working on establishing rules for deep-sea mining, with a goal of adopting finalized regulations by 2025. Several nations have called for a moratorium on deep-sea mining until regulations are in place. Currently, contractors are only permitted to extract seabed minerals if sponsored by a UNCLOS state party and have obtained an exploitation contract from the ISA.
Arguments for deep-sea mining include meeting the growing demand for critical minerals used in renewable energy technologies. However, studies have shown that there are plenty of land-based sources for these minerals. Proponents also argue that deep-sea mining could avoid some environmental hazards associated with land-based mining, such as pollution and deforestation.
Threats posed by deep-sea mining include harm to marine life and ecosystems, release of stored carbon, toxic sediment plumes, light and noise pollution, and economic and social risks. The process can lead to the extinction of species, disrupt the ocean’s carbon cycle, and impact fisheries and food security.
Deep-sea mining is not necessary for renewable energy, as there are alternatives such as increased recycling, obtaining minerals from hard rock mine tailings and coal waste, and shifting to different battery technologies. Building a circular economy and reducing overconsumption can also help minimize the demand for critical minerals.
To help stop deep-sea mining, individuals can apply the “three Rs” to electronic products, choose sustainable alternatives, reduce overconsumption, and build a circular economy. By focusing on responsible sourcing of minerals and reducing the demand for new resources, we can protect marine ecosystems and work towards a more sustainable future.