Underwater explorers question viability of deep
Deep-sea exploration experts are questioning the economic and environmental viability of mining polymetallic nodules from the ocean floor. Despite significant investment and US government support to secure critical minerals, critics argue the industry faces major hurdles in profitability and ecological impact.
Why it matters
The debate over deep-sea mining highlights the tension between the global demand for battery minerals and the preservation of fragile marine ecosystems.
Experts are concerned the economic case underpinning the deep-sea mining industry does not stack up. ( AFP )
Link copied Share Share article Few people on Earth have seen a polymetallic nodule 4 kilometres under the ocean, but Rob McCallum is one of them.
"They are anywhere between the size of a potato or a baseball and they are black," he said.
Mr McCallum is a divemaster and founder of EYOS Expeditions, a firm that specialises in deep-sea diving operations.
Rob McCallum has been to the bottom of the Mariana Trench and explored the wreckages of the Titanic and Bismark battleship. ( Supplied: Rob McCallum )
He has explored the depths of all five of the world's oceans, including the Mariana Trench, and has made trips to the wreck of the Titanic and the Bismarck.
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