How much of the deep seafloor has been visually observed by humans?

Humans have observed less than 0.001% of the deep seafloor, which is an area roughly the size of Rhode Island.

Why is there concern about seabed mining given the current state of deep-sea exploration?

Concerns arise because the deep-sea ecosystems are poorly understood, yet they play a crucial role in climate regulation by absorbing heat and carbon dioxide. Mining could cause irreversible damage to these fragile habitats without sufficient baseline knowledge.

What is the current regulatory status of deep-sea mining globally?

While some exploratory mining has occurred on a small scale, commercial deep-sea mining has not yet started. International regulation through the International Seabed Authority (ISA) is pending final rules expected in July 2025, with some countries calling for moratoria on mining due to environmental concerns.

Why is it difficult to assess the environmental impact of deep-sea mining?

Because less than 0.001% of the deep seafloor has been explored, the ecological roles and resilience of deep-sea habitats are largely unknown, making it hard to predict mining impacts or recovery capabilities.

What minerals are targeted by deep-sea mining and why is demand increasing?

Deep-sea mining targets minerals like copper, nickel, aluminium, manganese, zinc, lithium, and cobalt. Demand for these metals is rising due to their use in technologies such as smartphones, wind turbines, solar panels, and batteries.

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Study Reveals Less Than 0.001% of Deep Seafloor Explored, Sparking Concerns Over Seabed Mining

A new study shows that humans have explored less than 0.001% of the deep seafloor, highlighting the need for caution in seabed mining practices.

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Just 0.001 Percent Of The Deep Ocean Has Been Directly Observed

IFL Science

Humans still haven't seen 99.999% of the deep seafloor

NPR

More than 99% of the Deep Sea Still Remains a Mystery

TIME Magazine

Overview

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A recent study published in Science Advances reveals that humanity has observed less than 0.001% of the deep seafloor, equivalent to an area the size of Rhode Island. The study's lead author, Katy Croff Bell, emphasizes the under-exploration of deep-sea ecosystems, which play a crucial role in climate regulation by absorbing significant amounts of heat and carbon dioxide. With the Trump Administration's recent push for seabed mining leading to widespread concerns, experts argue that more research on deep-sea habitats is essential before proceeding with potentially damaging extraction activities.

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Human exploration of the deep sea has only covered 0.001% of the ocean floor, revealing a vast unknown ecosystem critical for climate and life on Earth.
The deep sea is integral to global processes, including oxygen production and carbon absorption, emphasizing the need for comprehensive research and mapping.
The call for cautious approaches to seabed mining highlights the need for further studies to understand the potential irreversible environmental impacts.

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Humans still haven't seen 99.999% of the deep seafloor

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: Humans have observed less than 0.001% of the deep seafloor, which is an area roughly the size of Rhode Island.
TIME
: Concerns arise because the deep-sea ecosystems are poorly understood, yet they play a crucial role in climate regulation by absorbing heat and carbon dioxide. Mining could cause irreversible damage to these fragile habitats without sufficient baseline knowledge.
TIME
: While some exploratory mining has occurred on a small scale, commercial deep-sea mining has not yet started. International regulation through the International Seabed Authority (ISA) is pending final rules expected in July 2025, with some countries calling for moratoria on mining due to environmental concerns.
WRI
: Because less than 0.001% of the deep seafloor has been explored, the ecological roles and resilience of deep-sea habitats are largely unknown, making it hard to predict mining impacts or recovery capabilities.
TIME
: Deep-sea mining targets minerals like copper, nickel, aluminium, manganese, zinc, lithium, and cobalt. Demand for these metals is rising due to their use in technologies such as smartphones, wind turbines, solar panels, and batteries.
IUCN

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