Deep sea mining summary notes

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Environmental and societal issues : summary notes about                         the deep-sea mining

Introduction:

The deep-sea mining industry is currently at the center of a significant global debate. It involves the extraction of valuable mineral deposits from the ocean floor at depths exceeding 200 meters Deep sea mining is a sub-field of mining that involves the recovery of minerals and deposits from depths of 200 metres or more on the ocean floor. As we delve into this complex topic, we will wonder how does the deep-sea mining controversy exemplify the larger global challenges related to the intersection of economic interests and environmental conservation in the context of climate change ? to answer to this problematic, we will firstly examine the deep sea mining controversy by looking at the rush to mine the ocean depths, the battle between proponents and opponents, and The Growing Uncertainty and Calls for a Moratorium. Secondly we will look at Environmental Concerns and the Call for Safeguards by looking at Understanding the Environmental Impact, the urgent need safeguards The Call for a Moratorium and Responsible Governance.

1. The Deep-Sea Mining Controversy

1. The Rush to Mine the Ocean Depths

The urgency of deep-sea mining is underscored by the plans of Canada's The Metals Company and its subsidiary, Nauru Ocean Resources Inc. In document 1, it's mentioned that The Metals Company intends to seek a license to begin mining the Pacific Ocean. They anticipate production to commence by 2025. Their primary focus is the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), a vast abyssal plain between Hawaii and Mexico, where they plan to extract nodules containing metals essential for battery production. They have conducted trials, lifting 3,000 tonnes of nodules from the seafloor in the previous year. This is indicative of the immediate interest in harnessing the vast mineral resources present in the deep-sea environment.

1. The Battle Between Proponents and Opponents

Document 2 provides insights into the international conflict surrounding deep-sea mining. The annual meeting of the International Seabed Authority (ISA), responsible for regulating activities in international seabeds, revealed deep divisions among member states. While some nations, including China, Norway, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and others are advocating for deep-sea mining, there is growing opposition. France, Chile, Costa Rica, and other island nations are seeking a moratorium on deep-sea mining to address climate change and environmental concerns. This document highlights the political tension that has arisen between countries pushing for deep-sea mining and those demanding a precautionary approach.

1. The Growing Uncertainty and Calls for a Moratorium

The growing uncertainty around deep-sea mining is illustrated by the disagreements within the International Seabed Authority (ISA). Document 2 reveals that the ISA has chosen not to grant authorization for deep-sea mining until a comprehensive mining code is established by 2025. At the same time, the call for a moratorium on mining is gaining momentum, with numerous nations, including Canada and Ireland, advocating for a precautionary pause. Despite not having the required majority to impose an ISA moratorium, these countries collectively cover a significant portion of the ocean floor. The reluctance of countries like China to engage in these discussions raises concerns about the effectiveness of the ISA and the democratic process within this body.

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