Table of Contents
Deep Sea Mining: A Concrete Threat to Nature and Energy
In Danger: Fragile Marine Ecosystems and Carbon Storage
The world is at a critical juncture, as the deep sea mining industry seeks to exploit the ocean’s depths for profit. This industry poses a concrete threat to the natural wonders of the deep ocean, which have taken millennia to develop. Not only does deep sea mining risk disturbing and releasing carbon stored in deep sea sediment, but it also endangers fragile marine ecosystems and threatens the livelihoods and traditions of people, particularly those in the Pacific region who have a deep spiritual connection to the ocean.
The False Promise of Ecological Necessity
The deep sea mining industry audaciously claims that its ecological risks are necessary for the energy transition. However, it is clear that monster machines scraping the seafloor and leaving a trail of destruction cannot be part of the solution to save the planet. The language of ecological necessity is being used as a smokescreen for profit-driven exploitation. The reality is that deep sea mining perpetuates a destructive extractive industry that harms both natural and human environments.
The Two Year Rule: A Looming Deadline
A Dubious Provision Exploited
The deep sea mining industry has taken advantage of an obscure provision in the Law of the Sea known as the “two year rule.” This rule allows countries to trigger a countdown to deep sea mining, even if no regulations are in place at the end of the two-year period. One such case is Nauru, a small island state that sponsors The Metals Company. By invoking this provision two years ago, they have set in motion the possibility of deep sea mining even without proper regulations.
A Crossroads for Governments
Despite the historic adoption of the Global Oceans Treaty, governments find themselves at a crossroads. They must decide between doing what is right and succumbing to the lure of profit-driven exploitation. The global ocean is not something that can be sold to the highest bidder; it belongs to everyone. Governments now have a critical decision to make regarding the future of the ocean and its resources.
People Power: A Vital Force in the Fight Against Deep Sea Mining
Growing Global Opposition
Around the world, people are mobilizing to put an end to deep sea mining. The opposition is gaining momentum, with Switzerland becoming the latest country to join the group of 16 nations that oppose deep sea mining. More than 700,000 people have signed a petition against deep sea mining, demonstrating the widespread concern for the health and protection of our oceans.
A Clear Signal Needed
While people power and mobilization are vital components of the fight against deep sea mining, they alone are not enough. Recent actions by the Norwegian government, which has decided to pursue deep sea mining in the Arctic, highlight the urgent need for world leaders to send a clear signal at the upcoming meetings of the International Seabed Authority. Deep sea mining must be recognized as a destructive and unsustainable practice that has no future.
Getting Involved: The Call to Action
To join the fight against deep sea mining, individuals can take several actions:
Social Media Engagement
– Send a tweet to your political leader, urging them to take a stand against deep sea mining.
– Share and spread the word on Instagram to raise awareness of this critical issue.
Signing the Petition
– Sign the petition created by the Stop Deep Sea Mining campaign to demand a global moratorium on this destructive extractive industry.
In conclusion, the threat of deep sea mining looms large, and the urgency to halt its progression is greater than ever. The deep ocean’s natural wonders, fragile ecosystems, and the well-being of communities are at stake. It is imperative that governments and individuals alike take a stand against this exploitative and destructive practice. The International Seabed Authority must send a strong message that deep sea mining has no future and that the protection of our oceans is a priority.
<< photo by Ivan Bandura >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.