Countries and campaign groups met in Jamaica to discuss deep-sea mining regulations amid concerns over environmental impacts and industry pressures. The ISA is attempting to finalize a mining code to guide seabed mineral extraction but faces disagreements and the looming threat of unregulated operations. Calls for a precautionary pause highlight ongoing tensions between economic interests and environmental safeguards.
Countries and campaign groups gathered in Jamaica to address deep-sea mining regulations, a controversial practice with potential harm to marine ecosystems. The meeting in Kingston is part of efforts by the International Seabed Authority (ISA) to develop a mining code for seabed mineral extraction. Industry pressure is growing as a metals company prepares to submit an unregulated extraction license application soon.
The French envoy, Olivier Guyonvarch, noted that consensus on the mining code remains distant, with ongoing drafts still highlighting unresolved issues. Costa Rica’s representative urged a “precautionary pause” for data gathering and legal framework development. However, this idea faces challenges in gaining support among ISA’s 169 members, as exemplified by China’s counterargument emphasizing tailored regulations for ongoing mining efforts.
Regulated by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the ISA is tasked with overseeing seabed mineral extraction while simultaneously protecting vulnerable marine environments. The long negotiations for a mining code, which has persisted for over a decade, revolve around extracting valuable materials such as nickel, cobalt, and copper essential for energy transition.
Riches of the seabed are deemed the “common heritage of mankind,” yet fears persist among African nations regarding economic impacts or missing out on benefits. Their representatives stress that underwater mining should not undermine Africa’s existing industries or sustainable development goals.
Industry stakeholders have criticized the prolonged delay in finalizing the mining code. Companies, including Nori – a subsidiary of The Metals Company – that have invested over $2 billion in extraction technology, warn of rising legal and financial risks. Nauru, backing Nori’s license application, is urging the ISA to establish procedures for handling applications without a mining code in place.
This request has met resistance from countries like Chile, emphasizing the agreement to draft regulations only after submission of applications. Sofia Tsenikli from the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition underscored the need for ISA member states to resist industry pressures to avoid potential ocean damage and exacerbation of the global crisis.
NGOs are optimistic about new ISA leader Leticia Carvalho, who has been urged to drive fast progress in negotiations. The council aims to finalize the mining code by year’s end, with Carvalho highlighting the necessity for substantial advancements by July, while considering adjustments to the timeline.
The Jamaica meeting on deep-sea mining underscores the fragility of marine ecosystems amidst escalating industry demands for regulations. Although pivotal discussions are underway, significant disagreements surround the development of a mining code, reflecting broader concerns about environmental impacts and equitable benefits for nations involved. The international community must navigate these tensions carefully to protect ocean health and ensure fair outcomes for all stakeholders.
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