Scientists Warning: Deep sea mining reduces ocean life by 37%

Deep sea mining significantly harms ocean life. (Image: Natural History Museum)

A new study reveals deep sea mining significantly harms ocean life. Mining vehicles reduce animal numbers by 37% in disturbed areas. Scientists discovered over 4,000 animals, 90% of them new species.

Mining Removes Life-Rich Sediment Layers

Vehicles scrape away the top five centimetres of seabed sediment. Most macrofauna live in this thin, fragile sediment layer. Animals include worms, clams, snails, sea spider and other small creatures. Diversity of species fell by 32% in the vehicle tracks.

Impact Extends Beyond Direct Mining Areas

Nearby areas with sediment clouds showed limited animal reduction overall. Species composition shifted, with some animals becoming more dominant locally. Pollution from mining operations may gradually kill less resilient species. Returning populations after disturbance remains uncertain, say lead researchers.

Mineral-Rich Zones Drive Controversy

Research was conducted in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone of the Pacific. The area holds vast deposits of nickel, cobalt and copper nodules. These minerals are essential for electric vehicles and renewable energy. Demand is predicted to at least double by 2040 worldwide.

Expert Warnings Remain Strong

Scientists say current mining technology is too damaging for commercial use. Even small-scale tests caused severe declines in animal abundance rapidly. Large-scale operations could threaten deep ocean biodiversity permanently. The study highlights urgent need for cautious ocean resource management.