All articles tagged with #deep sea mining
Scientists have discovered that polymetallic nodules in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone produce 'dark oxygen' 4,000 meters below the sea surface, potentially rewriting our understanding of oceanic oxygen sources and the origins of life, while complicating deep-sea mining debates due to ecological concerns.
The 2022 eruption of the Hunga volcano caused significant ash deposition on the seafloor, damaging deep-sea ecosystems and affecting Tonga's coral reefs and local livelihoods. The study highlights the environmental impact of underwater volcanic activity and raises concerns about future deep-sea mining, which could cause similar or greater ecological harm.
A 1979 deep-sea mining experiment in the Pacific's Clarion-Clipperton Zone left lasting scars on the seafloor, with visible damage still evident 44 years later. While some small organisms are beginning to recolonize the area, the recovery of larger, stationary species is slow, raising concerns about the ecological impacts of future large-scale mining operations in this fragile ecosystem.
The Lost City, an extraordinary underwater hydrothermal field located deep beneath the ocean near the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, features towering carbonate structures and unique microbial ecosystems that have existed for over 120,000 years. Its discovery offers insights into the origins of life and the potential for extraterrestrial life, but it faces threats from proposed deep-sea mining, prompting calls for its protection as a natural heritage site.
Norway has paused its plans for commercial-scale deep-sea mining after political opposition from the Socialist Left Party, which threatened to withhold budget support unless the first licensing round was scrapped. The decision comes amid environmental concerns and opposition from 32 countries, including France and Germany. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoer described the move as a "postponement," with further environmental research to be conducted. The suspension is seen as a victory by environmental groups like Greenpeace, while the country's energy ministry has yet to comment.
Around twilight off Japan's Minamitorishima Island, fish create a chorus using their gas-filled swim bladders and fins, which can be heard 18,000 feet below the sea. Researchers recorded the soundscape of the abyss for a year and discovered daily fish choruses around sunset, suggesting deep-sea creatures may have circadian rhythms. The sounds could serve as a zeitgeber for deep-sea species, but the impact of potential deep-sea mining noise on these ecosystems requires further study.
Norway's parliament has voted to approve deep-sea mining in a move to break China and Russia's rare earths dominance, despite warnings from scientists and environmental groups about the unknown environmental impacts. The decision puts Norway at odds with the U.K. and the European Commission, who have called for a temporary ban on deep-sea mining due to environmental concerns. Norway's government defends the decision, stating that it is necessary to explore sustainable ways to collect essential metals for the global transition away from fossil fuels, but critics argue that deep-sea mining will have vast negative impacts on marine life and the planet's health.
Norway's parliament has voted in favor of opening up its seabed for commercial deep-sea mining, despite warnings from scientists and opposition from the EU and the UK due to environmental concerns. The decision, which is expected to speed up exploration of minerals in high demand for green technologies, has been criticized by environmental organizations and experts. The move will expose a large area to potential mining by companies, with the International Seabed Authority expected to finalize rules on deep-sea mining later this year.
Norway's parliament has approved the exploration of a vast area of Arctic seabed for deep sea mining, despite concerns from environmental groups and scientists about the potential damage to marine life and ecosystems. The decision, which could make Norway the first country to engage in commercial deep sea mining, has sparked debate over the need for these resources in the green economy and the potential environmental costs. While proponents argue that deep sea mining could facilitate a faster transition to a low-carbon economy, critics emphasize the lack of knowledge about the deep ocean and its ecosystems, urging caution and a pause in deep sea mining activities.
Norway has approved commercial-scale deep-sea mining in its national waters, becoming the first country to do so, despite concerns from environmental scientists about the potential devastating impact on marine life. The move aims to accelerate the hunt for precious metals critical for green technologies, but has faced criticism from both external sources and Norwegian experts. The government plans to issue licences cautiously, requiring companies to submit proposals with environmental assessments, and estimates that actual extraction may not begin until the early 2030s. Critics argue that more investment should go into recycling and reusing existing minerals, while negotiations continue on whether licences could be issued for international seas.
Norway is set to approve a proposal to open its waters for deep-sea mining, making it one of the first countries to do so. The plan, which has received cross-party support, would allow companies to apply for licenses to mine for critical minerals near the Svalbard archipelago. While advocates argue that deep-sea mining is necessary for the global transition away from fossil fuels, critics and scientists warn of its potentially destructive environmental impacts and the lack of understanding of deep-sea habitats and biodiversity. The proposal has faced opposition from environmental groups, EU lawmakers, and the Norway Environment Agency, as well as conflicting with the U.K. and the European Commission's push for a temporary ban on deep-sea mining due to environmental concerns.
Deep sea miners operating the Coco, a mining exploration vessel, turned water hoses on Greenpeace activists who were attempting to block their prospecting in the Pacific Ocean. The activists, from various countries, have been using canoes and dinghies to obstruct the vessel as it collects data for a mining permit. The Metals Company, the operator of the Coco, has been conducting exploratory research in the Pacific since 2011 and plans to begin mining in the area in 2025. However, opponents argue that not enough is known about the environmental impacts of deep sea mining and have called for a moratorium on licensing. A Dutch court ruled that protests could continue around the ship, but Greenpeace climbers were ordered to come down or face fines. Both sides claim victory in the case.
A study published in Nature Communications highlights the potential dangers of deep-sea mining on marine life. Researchers focused on helmet jellyfish and found that exposure to increasing temperatures and sediment plumes caused the jellyfish to produce excess mucus, requiring extra energy that could otherwise be used for sourcing food. This could lead to starvation and lower reproduction rates, impacting atmospheric carbon sequestration. The study emphasizes the need for more research on the impact of human activities on deep-sea ecosystems.
Shipboard experiments conducted on helmet jellyfish in the Norwegian fjords have provided insights into the potential dangers of deep-sea mining. The researchers simulated the effects of mining by pumping sediment into the jellyfish tanks, revealing that the animals struggled to cope with the muddy water. The jellyfish responded by producing excess mucus and activating genes associated with tissue repair and the immune system. The study suggests that deep-sea mining could negatively impact marine life and disrupt the biological cycle that keeps carbon in the deep ocean. It also highlights the potential risks to human life, as fish that rely on midocean communities for food could be affected.
A first-of-its-kind study suggests that deep-sea mining could harm jellyfish by disrupting their metabolism. Sediment stirred from mining sites could activate stress responses in jellyfish, leading to excessive mucus production and increased energy requirements. This could potentially lead to starvation and harm the health of jellyfish. If other gelatinous organisms in the deep ocean respond similarly, commercial harvesting of the sea floor could reduce biodiversity and threaten crucial ecosystem functions.