Treasure Trove Unlocked: The Potential of Deep Sea Mining

Deep sea mining has emerged as a significant topic of interest, capturing the attention of scientists, policymakers, and the global community. 

The International Seabed Authority  recently made a groundbreaking announcement, opening the doors for companies to apply for deep sea mining activities. 

What is Deep Sea Mining?

Deep sea mining is an innovative process that aims to extract valuable minerals from the ocean floor, which are otherwise inaccessible through traditional mining methods. 

These minerals include sought-after metals like copper, gold, nickel, manganese, and rare earth metals that play a vital role in various industries, including technology and renewable energy. 

Polymetallic nodules, unique formations scattered across the ocean floor, hold these valuable resources, often located at depths of approximately 4 to 6 kilometres.

The Importance of Responsible Mining Practices

The ISA’s decision to accept applications for deep sea mining activities underscores the need for comprehensive regulations to guide these operations. It is essential to strike a balance between economic development and environmental preservation.

DEEP OCEAN MISSION

The National Institute of Ocean Technology, operating under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, has embarked on an extraordinary mission to develop a manned submersible capable of reaching astonishing depths of 6000 metres in the ocean. 

Collaborating on this ambitious project, the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre  of ISRO is actively involved in crafting a titanium alloy human sphere with a diameter of 2.1 metres, specifically designed for the manned submersible.

Known as the Deep Ocean Mission, this groundbreaking endeavour has been underway since 2018, with an estimated overall cost of Rs. 4077 crores over a five-year period (2021 to 2026).

India holds a notable position as the first country to attain the status of a ‘Pioneer Investor’ in 1987, receiving an area of approximately 1.5 lakh square kilometres in the CIOB for nodule exploration. 

In 2002, India entered into a contract with the ISA, following a comprehensive resource analysis of the seabed, leading to the surrender of 50 percent of the allotted area. Consequently, the country currently retains an area of 75,000 square kilometres for further exploration and exploitation.

The Role of International Collaborations

In the pursuit of sustainable deep sea mining, international collaborations play a crucial role. 

During the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Marseille, Resolution 122 was adopted, calling for a moratorium on deep-sea mining until certain essential conditions are met.

The Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation  is an example of a regional cooperation initiative that aims to foster economic and technical collaboration among countries in the Indian Ocean Rim.

India’s Contribution to Deep Sea Mining

India has made significant strides in the field of deep sea mining. The National Institute of Ocean Technology and the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research  are at the forefront of scientific research and expeditions to explore India’s deep-sea mineral wealth. 

The Indian government has also taken proactive steps to regulate and govern deep-sea mining within its exclusive economic zone. The Draft Deep Seabed Mining Regulations, 2021, provide a comprehensive legal framework to ensure responsible and sustainable practices. 

conclusion 

Deep sea mining holds immense potential for resource exploration and technological progress. International collaborations, comprehensive regulations, and sustainable practices are key to unlocking the benefits of deep sea mining while safeguarding our planet’s precious marine environment.