DOSI has actively participated in sessions at the International Seabed Authority (ISA), Kingston, Jamaica for over 10 years and the first part of the 30th session (March 3-28, 2025) was no exception. The DOSI delegation included Patricia Esquete, Samantha Robb, Victoria Assad, Ellycia Harrould-Kolieb and Lara Skerrattin, and an extensive online support team.
The 30th session of the ISA is a pivotal moment in the ongoing negotiations on deep-sea mining regulations. As the governing body responsible for regulating seabed mineral-related activities in areas beyond national jurisdiction, the ISA is working to develop a legal framework for the potential exploitation of deep-sea mineral resources. The session brings together member states, observers, and stakeholders to debate key aspects of the proposed Mining Code.
Discussions focus on critical issues such as environmental protections, financial models, compliance mechanisms, and the rights of coastal states. The outcomes of this session will have lasting implications for ocean governance and the future integrity of deep-sea ecosystems.
As negotiations on deep-sea mining regulations continue, DOSI remains committed to providing independent scientific expertise. A key highlight of our engagement was our side event, which brought together scientists, policymakers (including the new Secretary General of the ISA), and stakeholders to explore the latest scientific discoveries and their implications for deep-sea management.
DOSI’s Side Event: Keeping science at the heart of deep-sea governance
DOSI hosted a Side Event during the ISA session, offering a vital platform to discuss new scientific insights into deep-sea ecosystems and the challenges of regulating mining activities in these largely unknown environments. The session emphasised the need for science-driven decision-making and robust environmental safeguards to protect deep-sea ecosystems. The event featured presentations from leading deep-sea researchers, each providing critical insights into deep-ocean processes relevant to deep-sea mining governance.
Key Talks from the Side Event
- Dr Sabine Gollner, Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ)
The Discovery of Animal Life in Earth’s Crust Below Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Vents and Implications for Area-Based Management Tools (ABMTs)
Sabine shared groundbreaking research on the discovery of animal life within the Earth’s crust beneath hydrothermal vents. Such research expands our understanding of the functioning of vent ecosystems and has important implications for ABMTs, which are crucial for designing effective conservation strategies in mining-affected areas. - Dr Jeff Drazen, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Studies of Deep Midwater Life in the Eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) Can Aid in Choosing a Depth for Mining Waste Discharge
Jeff presented findings from studies on deep midwater ecosystems in the eastern CCZ. His research provides valuable insights into the ecological risks of mining discharge and how selecting appropriate depths for disposal could help mitigate harm to deep-sea species and food webs. - Dr Andrew Sweetman, Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS)
The Evidence for Dark Oxygen Production at the Abyssal Seafloor of the CCZ, and What Does the Evidence Mean?
Andrew shared details of the discovery of dark oxygen production at the abyssal seafloor of the CCZ, a process that challenges traditional assumptions about oxygen cycling in deep-sea environments. His findings highlight the need for a deeper understanding of seafloor ecosystems before any mining activities proceed, as such processes may play a crucial role in maintaining oceanic health.
The way forward
As the first part of the 30th session comes to a close, DOSI remains committed to ensuring that science plays a central role in shaping deep-sea mining regulations. Our Side Event reinforced the urgent need for precautionary measures, independent environmental assessments, and greater stakeholder involvement in decision-making processes.
Looking ahead to the second part of the 30th session in July 2025, DOSI will continue to share scientific information that can feed into sustainable ocean governance. As more information from our March Side Event becomes available, we will provide further insights and key takeaways.
Stay tuned for updates as DOSI continues its engagement in ISA-30 and beyond.
Join the conversation and support deep-ocean stewardship
DOSI invites scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders to engage with our Minerals Working Group and contribute to the discussion on deep-sea governance. By joining our network, you can collaborate with experts dedicated to advancing science-based decision-making and ensuring the protection of deep-sea ecosystems. Stay informed by reading our Policy Briefs relevant to the deep-sea mining discussion, which provide independent scientific insights and recommendations for sustainable ocean management. Your voice and expertise are crucial in shaping policies that safeguard the deep ocean for future generations.