Perspectives on Deep-Sea Mining

This book is a sequel to ’Deep-sea mining: resource potential, technical and environmental considerations’ (2017) and ‘Environmental issues of deep-sea mining: impacts, consequences and policy perspectives’ (2019), and aims to provide a comprehensive volume on the evolution of different aspects and perspectives of deep-sea mining from specialists around the world. The work is timely, as deep-sea minerals continue to enthuse researchers involved in activities such as ascertaining their potential as alternative sources for critical metals for green energy and other industrial applications, as well as technology development for their sustainable exploration and exploitation while addressing environmental concerns. With a steady increase in the number of contractors having exclusive rights over large tracts on the seafloor in the ‘Area’, i.e. regions beyond national jurisdictions, the International Seabed Authority is mandated with the responsibility of regulating such activities, and is in the process of developing a code for exploitation of deep-sea minerals. These coupled with growing interest among private entrepreneurs, investment companies and policy makers underlines the need for updated information to be made available in one place on the subject of deep-sea mining. The book evaluates the potential and sustainability of mining for deep-sea minerals compared to other land-based deposits, the technologies needed for mining, and processing of ores, approach towards environmental monitoring and management, as well as the regulatory frameworks and legal challenges to manage deep-sea mining activities. The book is expected to serve as an important reference for all stake holders including researchers, contractors, mining companies, regulators and NGOs involved in deep-sea mining.