Countries have debated for decades whether to allow mining on the ocean floor, a potential trove of critical minerals. Now, companies are telling regulators they plan to move ahead, whether or not rules are in place.
Companies are pushing to begin deep-sea mining for critical minerals despite the lack of established regulations. The Metals Company plans to start mining in the Pacific Ocean, potentially bypassing the International Seabed Authority (ISA) regulations with the help of the United States. This move raises concerns about environmental impact and poorly regulated mining, as the deep seabed's ecosystem remains largely unknown.
