Advanced monitoring technologies can be deployed to monitor and supervise activitiesin the deep sea. The data derived from the activities can be utilized to help understand the environmental effects of deep-sea mining and ways to mitigate those effects.
Introduction
According to research, 5-10% of the world’s minerals will come from deep-sea mining, with global annual turnover growing from virtually nothing to an estimated €10 billion between 2020 and 2030.[1]
In the quest for sustainable development, the world is grappling with a complex challenge: how to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. The rise of the blue economy, which encompasses all economic activities related to oceans, seas, and coasts, brings this challenge into sharp focus. At the centre of this exposition is the controversial practice of deep-sea mining.
Deep-sea mining involves the extraction of minerals and geological materials from the ocean floor. Deep-sea mining is seen by many as a lucrative path to bolster the global economy. The demand for these resources, driven by the growth in low-carbon technologies such as electric vehicles and wind turbines, is soaring. Polymetallic nodules, potato-sized lumps rich in nickel, cobalt, copper, and manganese, are particularly sought after. These nodules, found at depths of 4-6km in the Pacific’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone, are seen as key to powering our future[2]. While it holds economic promise, there are concerns about its impact on biodiversity and the environment. Research suggests that deep-sea mining is likely to result in biodiversity loss. The extraction process, which involves trawling the seabed and discharging waste sediment into the ocean, could devastate marine life and the ecosystem. The release of sediment plumes that contain toxic heavy metals could affect ecosystems and spread to other countries on ocean currents. Furthermore, research shows that the quantity and diversity of biological species in the deep sea is far higher than previously thought[3]. These species, many unique to specific areas, could be destroyed by mining activities.
Proponents argue that deep-sea mining is vital for the transition to a low-carbon economy. Critics, however, call for a moratorium on deep-sea mining until its risks are comprehensively understood. Balancing the economic benefits of deep-sea mining with the imperative of biodiversity preservation is a delicate task, one that will shape the future of the blue economy.
I believe that whilst the moratorium is necessary to fully understand the risks and conduct a comprehensive assessment of the environmental effects of deep-sea mining, it is also important to consider how the deployment of technology can aid in the effort to balance deep-sea mining and biodiversity preservation.
Advanced monitoring technologies can be deployed to monitor and supervise activities in the deep sea. The data derived from the activities can be utilized to help understand the environmental effects of deep-sea mining and ways to mitigate those effects.
Balancing the need for critical minerals with the preservation of deep-sea ecosystems is a complex task. It requires careful consideration of various factors, including the potential impacts on biodiversity, the demand for resources, and the need for sustainable practices. Technology can provide valuable tools and strategies to help achieve this balance.
Deep-sea mining, a promising yet challenging prospect, is a topic of great interest in Africa. The potential economic benefits are significant, but so too are the risks to the marine environment. The key to navigating these challenges lies in a balanced approach that considers both the economic benefits and the need to preserve biodiversity.
Africa has the potential to utilize deep-sea mining in a conservative manner by adopting several strategies. First, sustainable mining practices can be adopted that minimize environmental impact. This involves the use of advanced technologies for exploration and extraction, as well as the implementation of strict environmental standards, policies, and regulations.
The establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Africa’s territorial waters can help protect biodiversity. These areas would be off-limits to mining, providing a buffer against potential environmental impacts.
Furthermore, investment in research and development can lead to a better understanding of the deep-sea environment and the potential impacts of mining. This could include studies on the biodiversity of the deep sea and the potential effects of mining activities.
Conclusion
Deep-sea mining in Africa, as elsewhere, presents a complex challenge. While it holds the promise of significant economic benefits, it also poses substantial risks to the marine environment. It is crucial that any progress in this area is guided by robust scientific research and stringent regulatory frameworks to ensure the protection of the marine ecosystem. The future of deep-sea mining in Africa will depend on how well these challenges are navigated.
John O. Oladipo is a partner at Chayfield Law Practice. He can be reached at [email protected] ;[email protected]
[1]https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/law-politics/research/impact/embedding-deep-seabed-mining-into-africas-blue-economy-policy#:~:text=Deep%20Seabed%20Mining%20(DSM)%20is,ocean%20resources%20for%20economic%20growth.
[2]Karen McVeigh, ‘Deep-sea mining: why is interest growing and what are the risks?’ The Guardian, 9 January 2024, <https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/jan/09/deep-sea-mining-why-is-interest-growing-and-what-are-the-risks?ref=mc.news>
[3]The Observer view on the pros and cons of deep-sea mining. https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/29/the-observer-view-on-the-pros-and-cons-of-deep-sea-mining