Deep-sea mining and its impact on marine ecosystems and biodiversity

By XU Yanjun

Abstract:

The development in ocean mining and processing technology have led to a new boom in deep-sea mining as land mineral resources are being exhausted and the demand for metals has risen. As of 2022, the International Seabed Authority has signed 31 contracts to explore deep-sea mineral deposits.

Deep-sea mining has again triggered controversies. On one hand, proponents argue that deep-sea mineral deposits can replace fossil fuels such as coal and save the planet. Opponents, on the other hand, argue that deep-sea mining will damage

deepsea ecosystems and their biodiversity. The author will expound the causes and effects of deep-sea mining.

Key words:

deepsea mining, deep sea ecosystem, biodiversity, International Seabed Authority, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

XU Yanjun. Deep-sea mining and its impact on marine ecosystems and biodiversity

.Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development, Vol.1 No.9, August 2022, ISSN2749-9065.

Photo source: Frontier

Manganese nodules in deep water off Hawaii. Photograph: OAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research