Deep-sea mining is anticipated to be a significant topic. Modern day colonisation of the Seas.

“Australia is recognised as a leader in sustainable marine management,” said Veronica Papacosta, CEO Seafood Industry Australia. “Thanks to decades of rigorous science, strong regulation, and continual innovation, Australia has some of the healthiest ocean floors in the world.”  SIA full Media Release.

Our Ocean, Our Future, Our Responsibility

– political declaration of the 2022 united nations ocean conference

“The ocean is fundamental to life on our planet and to our future. The ocean is an important source of the planet’s biodiversity and plays a vital role in the climate system and water cycle. The ocean provides a range of ecosystem services, supplies us with oxygen to breathe, contributes to food security, nutrition and decent jobs and livelihoods, acts as a sink and reservoir of greenhouse gases and protects biodiversity, provides a means for maritime transportation, including for global trade, forms an important part of our natural and cultural heritage and plays an essential role in sustainable development, a sustainable ocean-based economy and poverty eradication.”

Deep-sea mining is expected to be a significant topic at the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), scheduled to take place in Nice, France, from June 9 to 13, 2025.

The conference’s overarching theme—“Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean”—suggests that pressing issues like deep-sea mining will be addressed.

In the lead-up to the conference, there has been a growing international debate over deep-sea mining. Some nations and companies view it as a strategic opportunity to access critical minerals, while others warn of the ecological risks and advocate for a moratorium.

Deep-sea mining is anticipated to be a significant topic

🔍 Key Sessions and Events on Deep-Sea Mining

While the official program detailing specific sessions is not yet fully published, several preparatory events and side forums are expected to address deep-sea mining:

• One Ocean Science Congress (June 3–6, 2025): This scientific gathering will precede UNOC3 and is set to cover topics including deep-sea mining, microplastics, and ocean governance. (jpi-oceans.eu)
• Blue Economy and Finance Forum (June 7–8, 2025): Focusing on sustainable ocean economies, this forum is likely to discuss the financial and environmental implications of activities like deep-sea mining.

Additionally, the conference will likely feature discussions on the development of international regulations for deep-sea mining, particularly in light of ongoing debates within the International Seabed Authority (ISA) regarding the establishment of a mining code.

Environmental organizations and a coalition of countries, including France and Costa Rica, have called for a moratorium on deep-sea mining until more comprehensive scientific research can be conducted to understand its potential impacts. (riseupfortheocean.org)

For the most current information on specific sessions related to deep-sea mining at UNOC3, it is advisable to regularly check the official conference program page. (Sustainable Development Goals)

The conference is anticipated to serve as a platform for stakeholders to discuss the future of deep-sea mining, including potential regulatory frameworks and environmental safeguards. Given the increasing global attention on this issue, it’s likely that deep-sea mining will be a focal point of discussions in Nice.