Approach Towards Deep-Sea Mining: Current Status and Future Prospects

Abstract

Deep-sea mineral resources within and beyond the national jurisdictions offer several opportunities for exploration and possible exploitation owing to their potential as alternate source of metals such as Ni, Cu, Co, rare earths and others. These are considered critical for meeting mankind�s increasing demands including that of transitioning to green energy in view of depleting or low-grade terrestrial deposits. Currently, several studies are underway for evaluating the economic and potential benefits of mining the deep-seabed minerals as well as developing suitable technologies for their exploitation, on one hand, and also for assessing the ecological risks, suggesting ecosystem-based management approach and developing relevant regulations for deep-sea mining, on the other. This chapter aims to put into perspective the current status and future prospects of deep-sea mining.