The world stands on the brink of a new frontier in mining, with the potential to extract battery metals such as manganese and nickel from the deep sea. This method has been touted as a potential alternative source of metals that could avoid terrestrial habitat destruction. However, as the International Seabed Authority, a United Nations observer organization, deliberates on regulations for this emerging industry, Canada has joined nearly 20 other countries including Ireland and Switzerland, in calling for a pause on deep-sea mining due to environmental concerns.
The Canadian government's opposition to deep-sea mining was expressed by the ministers responsible for foreign affairs, natural resources, and fisheries and oceans departments. They emphasized the necessity for a comprehensive understanding of the environmental impacts of seabed mining and a robust regulatory framework before such activities are permitted. This aligns with Canada's previous declaration in February that it would not authorize deep-sea mining in domestic waters due to the absence of a legal framework for issuing permits.
The cautionary stance taken by Canada and other countries is supported by warnings from the scientific community. The European Academies Science Advisory Council, in June, cautioned about the "dire consequences" for marine ecosystems if deep-sea mining proceeds unregulated. Concerns include sediment plumes, noise, vibration, light pollution, and potential spills of fuels and chemicals used in mining. Furthermore, a deep-sea mining test in February raised additional questions about the industry's safeguards and potential impacts on ecosystems.
This opposition is also shared by several European nations, environmental organizations, and companies such as BMW, Volvo, and Samsung, which have pledged not to use deep-sea minerals in their products. Seafood groups representing a third of the world's tuna trade, and even some early seabed mining supporters like Maersk and Lockheed Martin, have been divesting from their deep-sea mining investments.
Despite the opposition, some proponents argue that deep-sea mining is a less destructive source of materials vital for the energy transition. Norway has recently permitted deep-sea mining in its waters. Additionally, The Metals Co., a prospective deep-sea miner, and Nauru, have prompted the International Seabed Authority to create a mining code within two years. Although this deadline expired on July 9 this year, The Metals Co. stated it would wait for a comprehensive set of regulations before submitting a mining application.
As the International Seabed Authority convenes this week to discuss potential regulations, the future of deep-sea mining remains uncertain. Key issues such as royalties, environmental standards, and benefits sharing are yet to be agreed upon, with a full mining code not expected until the October meeting.
In the interim, some environmental advocates, like Susanna Fuller, vice-president of conservation and projects at Oceans North, argue for improved recycling of rare earth metals before resorting to deep-sea mining. As we approach this new frontier, the decisions made will have far-reaching implications for our planet's future. The deep-sea mining dilemma underscores the need for careful consideration in our pursuit of progress, to ensure the protection of our most valuable resource – the Earth itself.
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