Deep-sea mineral mining is inevitable, says ISA

Deep-sea mineral mining is inevitable, says the secretary-general of the International Seabed Authority (ISA). He cited enormous global interest in these critical materials, undoubtedly reopening this controversial debate in society, particularly as the ISA prepares for its 29th Assembly in March. Activists argue that large-scale mining could have unpredictable and irreversible consequences. In contrast, demand for these materials to transform the energy sector continues to grow.

Although no large-scale commercial mining is taking place yet, the possibility has been discussed for a long time. Supporters see it as an opportunity to produce large quantities of minerals at costs similar to, or even lower than, those the sector can achieve on land. The minerals and metals in question are primarily cobalt, nickel, copper and manganese. Secretary-General Michael Lodge has also highlighted the enormous potential of mining.

However, scientists and activists oppose its potential, warning against the proposed plundering. In their view, mining would destroy stretches of the seabed, wiping out endemic species, some of which may not even have been explored by humanity. What’s more, the resulting toxic sediment could disrupt the marine food chain.

The two sides of the debate are poles apart, and finding common ground will be extremely difficult. It is clearly worth considering whether deep-sea mining is truly a solution to the climate crisis, or rather a curse that simply shifts the problems elsewhere.

International Seabed Authority (ISA)

Lodge heads the ISA, which is effectively part of the United Nations. The ISA oversees the organisation and control of all activities related to mineral resources. It is responsible for ensuring effective protection of the marine environment from harmful effects that may arise in connection with any activity carried out on the seabed.

The basic legal framework is the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). It declared seabed areas beyond national jurisdiction to be the common heritage of humankind. The key document in this regard is the Mining Code, a comprehensive set of rules that enables the ISA to regulate the prospecting, exploration and mining of marine minerals in the international seabed area. Its aim is to balance economic needs with rigorous environmental protection.

The ISA’s 29th Assembly will begin in March, take place in two parts and conclude on 2 August 2024. The ISA Council, as its executive body, will continue working on regulations for deep-sea mining, with the aim of finalising the measures by July 2025.