The Science Behind Mining for Riches on the Deep-Sea Floor
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The US Trump administration has backed deep-sea mining, sparking debate over its environmental impact. The Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the Pacific Ocean is a key target for mining companies.
The US is pushing forward with deep-sea mining, despite concerns from conservationists. The Clarion-Clipperton Zone, a 1.7 million square mile area in the Pacific Ocean, is a prime target due to its rich deposits of cobalt, nickel, copper, and manganese. These minerals are crucial for electric-vehicle batteries, smartphones, and other technologies. A 2023 survey found that 90% of marine creatures in the proposed mining area are new species, challenging the notion that the area is an ecological wasteland. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has been directed to grant permits to mining companies, despite objections from the International Seabed Authority. The potential commercial value of the undersea minerals is estimated at $20 trillion.
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