Impact of Deep-Sea Mining Reveals Stark Biodiversity Loss

Sat Dec 06 2025 04:47:57 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A recent study highlights the ecological consequences of deep-sea mining, showing a 37% reduction in seabed animal populations following mining tests.

Scientists have uncovered alarming results regarding the impact of deep-sea mining on marine biodiversity, reporting a 37% decrease in the number of seabed animals post-testing. This research, conducted in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, indicates significant damage to the delicate ecosystems that are home to many newly identified species. Despite the demand for critical minerals from the ocean, there is rising concern about the long-term environmental effects of mining activities.

Machines mining minerals in the deep ocean have been found to cause significant damage to life on the seabed, scientists carrying out the largest study of its kind say.

The number of animals found in the tracks of the vehicles was reduced by 37% compared to untouched areas, according to the scientists.

The researchers discovered more than 4,000 animals, 90% of which were new species, living on the seafloor in a remote area of the Pacific Ocean.

Vast amounts of critical minerals needed for green technologies could be locked in the deep ocean, but deep sea mining in international waters is very controversial and currently not permitted until more is known about the environmental impacts.

The research by scientists at the Natural History Museum in London, the UK National Oceanography Centre and the University of Gothenburg was conducted at the request of deep sea mining company The Metals Company.

The team found that the mining tests significantly decreased both the number and variety of seabed animals, with impacts extending to the vital sediment layer housing much of the marine biodiversity.

Lead author Eva Stewart commented, The machine removes about the top five centimetres of sediment. That's where most of the animals live. So obviously, if you're removing the sediment, you're removing the animals in it too. This reduction points to the pressing need for regulatory measures as the International Seabed Authority continues to grapple with the complexities surrounding deep-sea mining operations.

The local ecosystems, already stressed by climate change, face further risks from mining activities, emphasizing the urgency of balancing resource extraction with environmental conservation.