Deep-Sea Mining Tests Reduce Marine Life by Over a Third, Study Finds

A new scientific study reports that trial deep-sea mining operations can significantly harm marine life. Researchers found a decrease of more than one-third in ocean floor animals near mining test sites. The study focused on a Japanese mining test conducted in 2020. Scientists observed the area for one year, noting a 43% drop in fish and shrimp populations on the seafloor. These findings intensify a global debate. Many companies seek to mine the seabed for metals used in green technologies like electric car batteries. However, environmentalists warn that extracting these resources could severely damage untouched ocean ecosystems. The International Seabed Authority is currently developing regulations for future commercial mining. This research provides critical data as governments decide whether, and how, to proceed.