Mining the deep ocean

Deep-sea mining ventures, led by The Metals Company and backed by multiple nations, aim to harvest mineral-rich nodules from the Pacific Ocean floor to meet surging demand for critical metals driven by the clean energy transition. However, over 40 countries and conservation groups call for a ban or moratorium until ecological impacts are better understood and regulations are finalized. The International Seabed Authority has yet to agree on a mining code, but commercial permits could be granted as early as this year through legal loopholes.