Environment and deep-sea mining: A perspective

As the quest for deep-sea mineral resources is gaining momentum, environmen t and ocean mining have become important aspects of study. Because many of these deposits occur in international waters, the concern for environmental conservation in view of the effects of deep-sea mining is resulting in the se effects being studied in different oceans, and efforts to develop regula tions governing this exploitation are also underway at national and interna tional levels. The impact assessment of deep-sea mining needs to encompass a variety of subjects, including environmental, socioeconomic, technologica l, and legal aspects. Ar the same time, effects of in situ environmental co nditions on ming activities also need to be considered for effecient perfor mance by the mining system. Differences in the degree of impact have been n oticed daring the mining simulation experiments by different investigating agencies. Therefore, interparameter co,comparisons, standardization of meth ods, and improvement in,mining design are important considerations for prop er utilization of resources, conservation of environment, and cost efficien cy of the mining operations.