Human understanding of the deep ocean is considerably limited in comparison to the rest of Earth’s ecosystems, despite it being the largest ecosystem on earth. While knowledge is limited, interest in utilizing deep ocean resources is growing, generating a host of legal issues surrounding environmental management within and beyond national jurisdictions. In particular, driven by expanding interest in exploiting deep ocean mineral resources, the International Seabed Authority (ISA) is designing the legal framework that may determine the long-term health of the largest living space on Earth: the international seabed, declared to be the common heritage of mankind, and the water column above it.
This webinar brought together some of the foremost experts on deep seabed mining to discuss this pressing issue. Of particular relevance are the ISA’s Draft Framework for the Regulation of Exploitation Activities, released in draft form on March 13 an open for public comment until May 15. In light of these important legal developments and advances in scientific understanding, now is the time to pause to consider the special nature of the deep ocean and how to best manage it.
PANELISTS:
- Michael Lodge, Deputy Secretary-General, International Seabed Authority
- Lisa Levin, Professor,Integrative Oceanography Division, Scripps Institution of Oceanography
- Hannah Lily, Legal Adviser, Governance & Natural Resources Advisory Services, Commonwealth Secretariat
MODERATOR:
- Dr. Kathryn Mengerink, Director, Ocean Program, Environmental Law Institute
For more information on ELI's Ocean Program, please go HERE.
Watch a video of the entire presentation HERE.