Norway recently achieved a milestone with electric vehicles (EVs) now outnumbering gas-powered cars, signaling a broader global trend toward cleaner energy. As demand for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel skyrockets—potentially doubling by 2030—concerns about sourcing these minerals arise.
Deep seabed mining (DSM) is being considered as an alternative to traditional land mining, targeting polymetallic nodules on the ocean floor. While DSM promises to mitigate some environmental issues associated with terrestrial mining, it poses significant risks to marine ecosystems, including habitat disruption and pollution.
Oversight for DSM falls under the International Seabed Authority (ISA), which has issued regulations for exploration but not for extraction. Most exploration contracts are with private companies, many backed by China, focusing on the environmentally sensitive Clarion-Clipperton Fracture Zone.
Pacific Island nations, dependent on fishing and tourism, face particular risks from DSM. Calls for a moratorium on DSM in these regions emphasize the need for more research on its environmental impacts and stronger local oversight to protect coastal communities. Comprehensive assessments are essential to balance the demand for critical minerals with the preservation of marine ecosystems and local livelihoods.
