Deep-sea mining of copper and other critical materials, Norway

Problems

• Deep-sea mining is a new and controversial type of mining that involves extracting minerals and metals from the seabed, often at great depths and distances from the shore. Norway, a major oil and gas exporter, is considering whether to open its offshore areas to deep-sea mining, a process that requires parliament’s approval and has sparked environmental concerns. 
  
  Norway has a long history of marine exploration and exploitation, dating back to the Viking era. The country has extended its continental shelf beyond the 200 nautical mile limit, claiming sovereign rights over the resources on the seabed. A recent study by the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD), which conducted the study, has found a “substantial” amount of metals and minerals ranging from copper to rare earths on the seabed of its extended continental shelf. 
  
  These resources are in high demand for the role they play in the transition to a greener economy. For example, copper and nickel are essential for electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies, while rare earth are used in magnets, electronics, and defense applications.
  
  Norway argues that deep-sea mining can provide a secure and sustainable supply of these critical materials, reducing its dependence on imports and diversifying its economy. The country also hopes to become a leader in the emerging industry, developing and exporting its technology and expertise to other countries. Norway has already established a national strategy for deep-sea mining, which outlines its vision, goals, and principles for the sector. The strategy emphasizes the need for a precautionary approach, a transparent and inclusive process, and a high environmental and social standard.
  
  However, deep-sea mining also poses significant challenges and risks, both technical and environmental. The seafloor in Norway’s proposed mining area is up to 4,000 meters deep, making it difficult and costly to access and operate. The harsh and unpredictable conditions, such as strong currents, low temperatures, and high pressures, also increase the uncertainty and complexity of the mining operations. Moreover, the environmental impact of deep-sea mining is largely unknown and potentially irreversible. 
  
  The mining activities could disturb, damage, or destroy the fragile and diverse ecosystems on the seabed, which host many species that are yet to be discovered and studied. The removal of the metallic nodules or crusts from the seabed could also release large amounts of sediment and pollutants into the water column, affecting marine life and ocean chemistry.
  
  The environmental groups and the scientific community have called on Norway to postpone its seabed mineral exploration until more studies are conducted to understand the organisms living on the seabed and the impact of mining on them. They have also urged Norway to adopt a moratorium on deep-sea mining, following the example of other countries, such as Germany and France, and the European Parliament. They argue that deep-sea mining is unnecessary and undesirable, as there are alternative sources of critical materials, such as recycling, onshore deposits, and substitution. They also warn that deep-sea mining could undermine the global efforts to conserve and protect the ocean, which is vital for the climate, biodiversity, and human well-being.