Conceptual Proposals for Environmental Investigations of Deep-Seabed Mining (36th Underwater Mining Institute · 24-30 September 2006)

Issues of deep-seabed mining are discussed since four decades and extensive efforts have been invested in oceanographic studies related to environmentally sound harvesting of polymetallic nodules. Because mining on the deep seafloor seems to range from large-scale, two-dimensional dredging or scooping up of the ore from the uppermost surface sediment layer to more localized drilling or deeper digging into a three-dimensional ore body, it appears to be justified to reconsider some concepts for environmental impact evaluation. Based on the experience gained during preceding years in environmental studies related to polymetallic nodule mining, some interrelated hypotheses and proposals will be presented. It is suggested that these proposals be considered in future plans for environmental impact evaluation and that observations on community re-establishment be conducted before massive sulphide mining or other ore extractions enter the commercial mining phase.