We share this important text by Pradeep Singh calling for a preventive suspension of deep-sea mining. A preventive suspension is a temporary suspension of the development of deep-sea mining activities in international waters until sufficient scientific, legal and environmental protection measures are in place.

photo from deep sea conservation website

In this paper, Pradeep Singh examines the scientific, legal and governance considerations underpinning calls for a temporary pause on commercial deep-sea mining in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

Why is a precautionary pause necessary?

The case for a precautionary pause is rooted in scientific, legal, and governance concerns, as well as in conformity with international law.

1. The precautionary principle, scientific uncertainty and environmental risk The deep sea is one of the least understood ecosystems on Earth, and mining could cause irreversible damage before its full consequences are even known. Scientists warn that:

• Sediment plumes from mining could smother marine life over vast areas.
• The removal of seabed habitats could disrupt ecosystems that have taken millions of years to form.
• Mining noise and light pollution could interfere with deep-sea species, many of which are uniquely adapted to darkness and quiet.
Without adequate baseline data on deep-sea biodiversity and ecosystem functions, there is no way to accurately predict or mitigate these risks.

The precautionary principle, enshrined in international law, mandates caution in decision-making in the face of scientific uncertainty and potential harm to the environment. In the context of deep-sea mining, this principle is particularly relevant due to the largely unexplored and fragile ecosystems of the deep ocean.

The ISA, as the regulatory body overseeing mineral exploitation in areas beyond national jurisdiction, is obligated under international law, including UNCLOS and related agreements, to apply the precautionary principle. This requires the States to ensure comprehensive environmental impact assessments, establish stringent regulations, and, where risks are not well understood, implement a precautionary pause until sufficient scientific evidence can guarantee that mining activities will not cause significant or irreversible harm.

You can read the full text here: Deep-sea mining: The case for a precautionary pause