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Deep-Sea Mining and the Sustainability Paradox: Pathways to Balance Critical Material Demands and Ocean Conservation

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  • Loránd Szabó

    (Electrical Machines and Drives Department, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, 400114 Cluj-Napoca, Romania)

Abstract

Deep-sea mining presents a critical sustainability paradox; it offers access to essential minerals for the technologies of the green transition (e.g., batteries, wind turbines, electric vehicles) yet threatens fragile marine ecosystems. As the terrestrial sources of these materials face mounting geopolitical, environmental, and ethical constraints, undersea deposits are increasingly being viewed as alternatives. However, the extraction technologies remain unproven at large scales, posing risks related to biodiversity loss, sediment disruption, and altered oceanic carbon cycles. This paper explores how deep-sea mining might be reconciled with sustainable development, arguing that its viability hinges on addressing five interdependent challenges—technological readiness, environmental protection, economic feasibility, robust governance, and social acceptability. Progress requires parallel advancements across all domains. This paper reviews the current knowledge of deep-sea resources and extraction methods, analyzes the ecological and sociopolitical risks, and proposes systemic solutions, including the implementation of stringent regulatory frameworks, technological innovation, responsible terrestrial sourcing, and circular economy strategies. A precautionary and integrated approach is emphasized to ensure that the securing of critical minerals does not compromise marine ecosystem health or long-term sustainability objectives.

Suggested Citation

  • Loránd Szabó, 2025. "Deep-Sea Mining and the Sustainability Paradox: Pathways to Balance Critical Material Demands and Ocean Conservation," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(14), pages 1-34, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:14:p:6580-:d:1704824
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    5. Chunjuan Wang & Dahai Liu & Jianjun Chen & Chenglong Li & Ying Yu, 2024. "Preliminary Assessment of Environmentally Friendly Mining Options Based on Various Mineral Resources—A Case Study of the Clarion-Clipperton Fracture Zone in Pacific," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(17), pages 1-20, September.
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