Demand for raw materials will continue to mount due to the switchover to climate-neutral technologies. At the same time, the surging world population is also expected to correlate with increased demand for raw materials. Due to its virtually inexhaustible mineral resources, the deep sea has come into focus in recent years. Manganese nodules, massive sulphides and cobalt crusts from which important raw materials can be extracted are present at depths of around 2,000 to 6,000 metres. Deep-sea mining is controversial, however, as there are fears that this would damage a highly sensitive and complex ecosystem.
Economic use of the deep sea is in a legal limbo, as rules, i.e. the so-called "Mining Codes" are not yet in place. An application filed by the island nation of Nauru in 2021 under a clause of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea triggered a two-year deadline for rules to be adopted for the different types of raw materials. The International Seabed Authority (ISA), which is in charge of granting exploration licences and mineral extraction, is currently developing a corresponding set of rules. Germany has stated that it will refrain from deep-sea mining until risks have been sufficiently researched and strict mining rules are in place that rule out serious environmental damage.
This Sustainability Monitor compares the advantages and disadvantages of deep-sea mining and describes the legal framework. At the same time, the political discourse in Germany is sketched out and specific recommendations for action are provided.
