Adaptive management of deep-seabed mining projects: a systems approach

Abstract

Increasing demand for metals used in clean energy technologies including electric vehicles has led to an increased demand in certain metals such as nickel, cobalt and manganese. This has in turn led to an expanding interest in deep-seabed mining (DSM) of polymetallic nodule deposits that contain these exact metals. The main concerns about DSM relate to the incomplete information available about the environmental risks associated with seabed mineral extraction. Key uncertainties need to be systematically addressed to refine environmental impact predictions and establish effective mitigation measures. Adaptive management is an iterative process for reducing the uncertainty that can be applied by both mining companies and regulatory bodies. This Brief Commentary reviews the key opportunities and challenges to operationalising adaptive management in DSM projects and highlights the need for a framework to move from theory to practice. The discussion proposes a systems approach to adaptive management, which could help to guide the environmental management of deep-sea mineral extraction. T