An ELI Member Webinar
The deep ocean environment is in many respects, a mystery. Some accounts state a mere 5% of the world's seabed has been thoroughly explored, yet heightened concerns over climate change and efforts to decarbonize transportation are driving a new frontier into deep-seabed mining. Proponents of deep-seabed mining claim it is a viable strong potential solution to present and growing shortages in the critical materials need for renewable energy technologies and electric car batteries, amongst others. Meanwhile, opponents to deep-seabed mining emphasize the risks to biodiversity, potential for permanent ecosystem damages, climate implications of mining, and lack of clarity surrounding international governance on the high seas.
How can environmental regulations protect unique deep ocean habitats from mining impacts without hindering potential growth in the technological sphere? What is the current status of deep-seabed mining activities? Who are the regulatory and industrial stakeholders in deep-seabed mining? Panelists explored both the net benefits and costs of seabed mining decision-making, tackled best practices for seeking a sustainable and commercially-viable industry, envisioned the future of marine environmental protection, and confronted the current regulatory landscape of deep seabed mining.
Panelists:
Margaret Spring, Chief Conservation and Science Officer, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Moderator
Kristina Gjerde, High Seas Policy Advisor, Global Marine Program, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
Gregory Stone, Ph.D., Director & Chief Ocean Scientist, DeepGreen Metals Inc.
Cindy Van Dover, Ph.D., Harvey W. Smith Professor of Biological Oceanography, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University
Materials:
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