Future of Ocean Resources: The Next 25 Years
Abstract
The ocean's non-living resources being least exploited have remained nearly inexhaustible. Among the possible mineable mineral resources during the next few decades are: (1) Biological deposits such as coral (e.g. Lakshadweep) and oyster beds for needy cement industry as lime. (2) Detrital deposits like the heavy metal placers, such as magnetite (off Norway and Japan), ilmenite (central west coast of India), zircon, monazite and thorite (off Kerala), wolframite and cassiterite (off Malaysia), heavy metals like gold, platinum (Alaska), chromium and also diamonds (off SW Africa). (3) Chemical precipitates as phosphorite and manganese nodules (Central Pacific and Central Indian Ocean), deep ocean sediments, such as red clays, calcareous and siliceous oozes (deep oceans) potash and saline minerals and hot brine soaked sediments rich in valuable metals (Red Sea Deeps). This is possible with the development of available high level R & D, and refinement of fast developing technology, precision oceanographic instrumentation coupled with the support of SEASAT imagery, use of deep-towed, unmanned, remote controlled vehicles and submersibles. An international agreement on legal aspects amy soon pave the way for ocean exploration and exploitation for the benefit of mankind
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