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Deep‐Sea Mining Finance: Balancing Investment Risks, Environmental Responsibility and Financial Opportunities for Sustainable Technology and Impacts

Author

Listed:
  • Thisuri Fernando
  • Poorni Ranaweera
  • Tirishe Droohithya
  • Gayithri Kuruppu
  • Nimila Dushyantha
  • Sandun Dassanayake
  • I. M. Saman K. Ilankoon

Abstract

Deep‐sea mining (DSM) has garnered global attention as a potential solution to the critical metals supply–demand gap, particularly for green technologies addressing climate change. However, environmental concerns pose significant challenges. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), DSM requires innovative financial frameworks to balance economic opportunities and ecological risks. This paper critically examines the financial complexities of DSM, which are marked by market fluctuations, legal uncertainties, and geopolitical factors. It proposes a holistic strategy integrating technological innovation, sustainable practices, stakeholder collaboration and global sustainability alignment. Key recommendations are mitigating environmental impacts, optimising financial instruments, employing rehabilitation funds, analysing ecological effects and diversifying investments. By addressing these aspects, the study aims to advance sustainable DSM financing and inform essential research preceding the commercial extraction of critical metals.

Suggested Citation

  • Thisuri Fernando & Poorni Ranaweera & Tirishe Droohithya & Gayithri Kuruppu & Nimila Dushyantha & Sandun Dassanayake & I. M. Saman K. Ilankoon, 2026. "Deep‐Sea Mining Finance: Balancing Investment Risks, Environmental Responsibility and Financial Opportunities for Sustainable Technology and Impacts," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 34(S1), pages 248-263, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:34:y:2026:i:s1:p:248-263
    DOI: 10.1002/sd.70174
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Olive Heffernan, 2019. "Seabed mining is coming — bringing mineral riches and fears of epic extinctions," Nature, Nature, vol. 571(7766), pages 465-468, July.
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    4. Anthony Bebbington & Denise Humphreys Bebbington, 2018. "Mining, movements and sustainable development: Concepts for a framework," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 26(5), pages 441-449, September.
    5. Krutilla, Kerry & Good, David & Toman, Michael & Arin, Tijen, 2021. "Addressing Fundamental Uncertainty in Benefit–Cost Analysis: The Case of Deep Seabed Mining," Journal of Benefit-Cost Analysis, Cambridge University Press, vol. 12(1), pages 122-151, March.
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