Deep-Sea Mining: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)

13 Jun 2024 (6 months ago)

Deep-Sea Mining and its Environmental Concerns

Deep-sea mining of mineral deposits like nickel and cobalt in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) could cause irreparable damage to the marine environment, including habitat destruction and sediment release.
Scientists are concerned about the potential impact on unique and fragile species in the CCZ, as well as long-term ecosystem damage that may take decades to recover.

Ocean organisms have led to advancements in medicine, with drugs derived from sea creatures used to treat various diseases, including HIV, breast cancer, and COVID-19.

The ISA, responsible for regulating deep-sea mining in international waters, has been criticized for its lack of transparency, potential conflicts of interest, and weak environmental standards.
The ISA has not rejected any license applications for deep-sea mining exploration, raising concerns about its effectiveness in protecting the marine environment.
The head of the ISA, Michael Lodge, has expressed support for deep-sea mining and has been accused of being a "cheerleader" for mining interests.

Deep-sea mining is being promoted as a solution to the climate crisis, but it raises ethical and environmental concerns.
Metals found in deep-sea nodules are used in batteries, but new battery technologies are emerging that don't require these metals.
Many tech and car companies have pledged not to use metals extracted from deep-sea mining until the environmental impact is understood.

More and more countries are calling for a precautionary pause or moratorium on deep-sea mining.
The US should join the Law of the Sea Treaty to have a say in the regulation of deep-sea mining.

Patience and listening to scientific evidence are crucial in making informed decisions about deep-sea mining.

The deep ocean should be treated with respect and recognized for its intrinsic value, rather than being seen solely as a resource to be exploited.