Deep-Sea Mining for Critical Minerals Gains Momentum Amid Rising Demand

As the International Seabed Authority works on regulations, companies plan operations and environmental concerns are raised.

Deep-sea mining for critical minerals used in electric vehicle batteries and other electronics is being considered as a solution to meet the increasing demand for these resources.
The International Seabed Authority (ISA) is working on setting regulations for deep-sea mining, but missed a July 2023 deadline, allowing anyone to apply for a commercial mining permit.
Companies like The Metals Co are planning to vacuum polymetallic nodules, rich in critical minerals, from the Pacific Ocean's Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ).
Environmental concerns include potential harm to marine life and ecosystems, with research showing that sediment plumes from mining could disrupt animal migrations.
Alternatives to deep-sea mining are being developed, such as Impossible Metals' robotic device that distinguishes between nodules and aquatic life, aiming to preserve the ecosystem.