What are the main challenges of deep sea metal extraction according to Sylvia Earle?

Sylvia Earle states that the primary challenges of deep sea metal extraction are the immense costs and complexity of operating at extreme ocean depths, likening it to being more difficult than space exploration.

Why are nations pursuing deep sea mineral extraction?

Nations are pursuing deep sea mineral extraction to bolster their economic stability and secure vital supply chains for critical minerals.

What is Sylvia Earle's background in marine science?

Sylvia Earle is a highly experienced marine biologist and oceanographer who has led over 100 marine expeditions and previously served as the first woman chief scientist of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration.

Home / Science / Ocean Depths: More Costly Than Space?

Ocean Depths: More Costly Than Space?

9 Feb

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Summary

Deep sea metal extraction faces immense cost and complexity challenges.
One expert compares ocean exploration costs to space travel.
Nations pursue deep sea minerals for economic and supply chain security.

Deep sea metal extraction faces significant hurdles due to overwhelming costs and complexity, according to veteran marine biologist Sylvia Earle. Earle, a distinguished oceanographer, emphasized that the perceived ease of deep ocean operations is an illusion, stating that mobilizing the necessary technology for such depths is incredibly expensive.

Nations, including the United States, are actively working to establish policies and enhance technologies for extracting critical minerals like copper and gold from the ocean floor. This pursuit is driven by a desire to strengthen economic stability and secure supply chains. Japan, for instance, is advancing a long-standing plan to mine rare earths to mitigate China's dominance in these materials.

Earle, who has extensive experience in ocean exploration equipment development, highlighted the underestimated difficulties of working in saltwater at great depths. Her career includes leading over 100 marine expeditions, and she recently participated in building research submersibles for deployment in French Polynesia.