Take 'precautionary approach' on deep-sea mining

Polymetallic nodules and metal-rich hydrothermal vents on the seabed of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans and deep sea mining exploration are in the run up to the meeting of the Council of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) in Jamaïca which is set to be held from 17 to 28 March. 

The head of the body drafting regulations for the practice said “rules for the emerging deep-sea mining sector should take a "precautionary approach" that protects the environment”. But researchers and environmentalists have long warned it risks, destroying habitats and species that are little understood, and could upset delicate ocean processes that affect climate change. 

Regulating the industry is the responsibility of the ISA, an independent body established under a UN convention. Its Council aims to adopt a code this year, after more than a decade of work.