We are feeling frustrated about this as we write. The world needs a reliable supply of battery minerals going forward, to decarbonize electricity supply. Where controls exist, we have a chance of recovering those scarce materials in an environmentally sensible manner. However, if there are no controls, then this opens the door to irresponsible operators. Why is the deep sea mining authority still dragging its feet?
What is the Deep Sea Mining Authority Supposed to Do?
BNN Bloomberg describes the deep sea mining authority as a United Nations-affiliated regulator. It says it is responsible for developing rules for strip-mining deep-ocean ecosystems for valuable metals. The authority missed a deadline on July 9, 2023 to publish these rules, and it therefore must start issuing licenses to explore.
The International Sea Bed Authority, to use its official title has 167 participating member states, plus the European Union. The authority has three main missions according to Wikipedia:
- Authorize and control development of mineral-related operations in the international seabed below 650 feet depth.
- Protect the ecosystem of that seabed, ocean floor and subsoil in areas beyond individual national jurisdiction.
- Exercise oversight over activities that might threaten biological diversity and harm the marine environment.
International Sea Bed Authority Enters Uncharted Waters
The Deep Sea Mining Authority missed a July 9, 2023 deadline to agree, and publish regulations to control deep-sea mining. And as a result, by its own rules it has had to approve 31 applications by mining contractors to explore the seabed in international waters for minerals. Although none of these operators are actually allowed to start mining battery materials yet.
Meanwhile the 167 participating member states, plus the European Union have granted themselves an extension. The International Sea Bed Authority now has another two years to complete the rules controlling strip-mining of deep ocean ecosystems for valuable metals.
We hope the authority has the power to prevent this happening in ecologically sensitive areas, especially by one of those 31 mining contractors investing large sums of money, who discover a valuable resource that is too good to let go.
More Information
Sourcing Future Batteries – Things to Ponder
