- Deep-sea mining refers to the extraction of minerals and resources, such as polymetallic nodules, polymetallic sulphides, and cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts, from the ocean floor. This activity is expected to become significant in the coming decades.
What are polymetallic nodules?
- Polymetallic nodules are lumps of iron, manganese hydroxides, and rock found partially submerged in the ocean floor. They contain valuable metals such as manganese, copper, and nickel, making them economically attractive for mining.
Why is deep-sea mining important?
- Deep-sea mining is important because it provides access to valuable minerals that are essential for various industries, including electronics, renewable energy, and transportation.
Which organizations oversee deep-sea mining activities?
- The International Seabed Authority (ISA) regulates deep-sea mining activities, granting 15-year contracts to countries and companies to explore and potentially exploit these resources.
What is the significance of the recent study on 'dark oxygen'?
- The study discovered that an unknown process is producing oxygen deep in the oceans, where it is too dark for photosynthesis. This 'dark oxygen' is potentially created by the interaction of polymetallic nodules with water molecules, raising concerns about the impact of mining on these ecosystems.
What are the environmental concerns associated with deep-sea mining?
- Deep-sea mining could disrupt marine ecosystems, especially those reliant on 'dark oxygen'. Previous studies have shown that disturbances from mining can have long-lasting impacts on local biodiversity and ecosystem functions.
What measures are being taken to ensure sustainable deep-sea mining?
- To ensure sustainability, it is crucial to conduct thorough environmental impact assessments and develop technologies that minimize ecological disturbances. Additionally, international regulations and guidelines must be enforced to protect marine life.
How is India involved in deep-sea mining?
- India has signed contracts with the ISA to explore polymetallic nodules and polymetallic sulphides in the deep seabed. The Ministry of Earth Sciences is building a submersible vehicle to assist in this mission as part of its 'Deep Ocean Mission'.
What is the Clarion-Clipperton Zone?
- The Clarion-Clipperton Zone is an area of the ocean floor off Mexico’s west coast. It has the world’s highest concentration of polymetallic nodules, containing vast amounts of manganese, copper, and nickel.
What are the implications of 'dark oxygen' for deep-sea mining?
- The presence of 'dark oxygen' implies the existence of unknown ecosystems that could be affected by mining activities. Ensuring the protection of these ecosystems is critical for maintaining oceanic biodiversity and health.
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