There is widespread concern in the scientific community about the impact of deep seabed mining (DSM) on delicately balanced deep ocean ecosystems. Economists are projecting far-reaching consequences for the industries and communities that depend on a healthy ocean.
Impacts include:
- Loss of wildlife in the areas mined and destruction of seabed habitats;
- Release of toxic chemicals (wastewater, sediment and residual metals) in the immediate vicinity and plumes expanding from the area of impact;
- Disruption of wildlife due to noise, light and vibration;
- Disruption of geophysical and biogeological processes;
- Loss of opportunities to fill knowledge gaps on ecosystem structure and function; and
- Loss of the intrinsic value of a healthy ocean.
Alternative solutions for the growing demand for metals and minerals exist – a combination of innovation, recycling and repair can satisfy the need for raw materials without opening the seafloor to mining. We need to rethink our economy and reduce our demand for raw materials including countering over-consumption and prioritising sustainable consumption and production. Deep sea mining is not needed for the “green shift”. (see Statement by the European Academies of Sciences Deep-sea mining: assessing evidence on future needs and environmental impacts (easac.eu) ).
Over 20 countries have already committed to a temporary ban or pause on exploitation of the deep sea.
The Clean Arctic Alliance supports a global moratorium on all deep seabed mining activities.
