In this EcoJustice Radio episode, we delve into the controversial and complex world of deep seabed mining. We feature a panel of experts discussing the environmental, economic, and geopolitical implications of extracting minerals from the ocean floor. Marine Scientists, a documentary filmmaker, mining industry officials debate the need for and consequences from extracting rare earth minerals for renewable energy technologies.
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Deep Sea Dilemma: Mining vs. Marine Life
In our latest podcast episode, we embark on a journey into the depths of the ocean to explore the controversial and complex world of deep sea mining from the Wonderful World Festival in Norway [https://www.wonderfulworld.no/]. This emerging industry has sparked intense debate among environmentalists, scientists, and policymakers alike, as it promises to unlock valuable mineral resources while posing significant risks to the delicate ecosystems of the ocean floor.
Discover the unknowns of the deep sea, the ethical considerations, and the potential impact on future generations. Join us as we explore whether the pursuit of these resources is truly necessary and the role of storytelling in shaping our understanding of the ocean’s mysteries.
STORY: Sunken Seaweed: The Future of Regenerative Ocean Farming
We started with an introduction by panel moderator, Anders Dunker.
Next are excerpts from a TED Talk by Sandor Mulsow, Marine Geologist of the International Seabed Authority, from Chile. Also included is the trailer of the documentary film DEEP Rising, which he is featured in.
Sandor Mulsow TED Talk https://youtu.be/tIg1M0b43jQ?si=_SWZ6pZs-S9lSNA1
The International Seabed Authority (ISA), a UN organization, plays a central role in regulating this industry. However, its dual mandate to both protect the ocean’s ecological integrity and facilitate mineral extraction has led to conflicts and concerns about governance. Our discussion highlights the need for transparency and accountability in decision-making processes, as well as the importance of independent scientific research to guide policy.
Following we featured excerpts from the panel, that can be listened to in its entirety here…
The Deep Sea and the Mining Business: https://youtu.be/qPm1HdyvYaM?si=nw6sSrWN_8DP0A_Y
Fragile Deep Seabed Ecosystems
Fragile Deep Seabed EcosystemsEnvironmentalists argue that the deep sea is a largely unexplored and fragile ecosystem, home to countless species yet to be discovered. The potential loss of biodiversity and disruption of ecological functions raise significant ethical questions. Are we willing to sacrifice these natural wonders for short-term economic gain? Our panelists urge us to consider the precautionary principle, which advocates for halting activities with uncertain consequences until we fully understand their impact.
Geopolitics also plays a crucial role in the deep sea mining debate. As countries vie for control over these resources, the balance of power in the global mineral market could shift dramatically. The dominance of China in the processing and supply of critical minerals adds another layer of complexity to the discussion, as nations seek to secure their own sources of these valuable materials.
STORY: The Lucrative and Violent Curse of Coltan Mining in Congo
Mining Technologies and the Green Energy Transition
Mining Technologies and the Green Energy TransitionTechnological challenges and innovations are at the forefront of this industry, as engineers develop new methods to access and extract minerals from the ocean floor. However, the environmental costs of these technologies remain a pressing concern. Our panelists explore the potential for sustainable solutions and the need for ongoing research to minimize the impact on marine ecosystems.
Ultimately, the future of deep sea mining hinges on our ability to balance economic interests with environmental stewardship. As we confront this pivotal moment, our podcast episode invites listeners to reflect on the broader implications of our actions and the legacy we leave for future generations. Tune in to join the conversation and explore the depths of this urgent debate.
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Anders Dunker [https://www.andersdunker.com/] is a Norwegian writer and philosophical journalist based in Los Angeles and an associate professor at Oslo International School of Philosophy. In contributions across a range of publications, including Le Monde Diplomatique, Ny Tid, and the Los Angeles Review of Books, he writes about nature, technology, social change, and the planetary future. He is the editor of the book series ‘Futurum’ at Existenz Forlag and a regular contributor and board member in the Norwegian Writers’ Climate Campaign, as well as a collaborator in Technophany – A Journal of Philosophy and Technology. In 2019, he published Rediscovering Earth (Spartacus and O/R books). In 2022, his collection of essays, Thinking on the Planet, was published by Existenz Publishers. Unknown Territory is his third book.
Sandor Mulsow, Marine Geologist, long-time member of the International Seabed Authority, the UN’s own body for safeguarding the health of the oceans. He is a professor at Universidad Austral de Chile, and was featured in the documentary film DEEP RISING. [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandor-mulsow-b98a2214/?originalSubdomain=cl]
Other Members of the panel
Matthieu Rytz, filmmaker, visual anthropologist, director of the documentary DEEP RISING [https://www.deeprising.com/]
Kaja Lønne Fjærtoft, marine biologist and Global Head of Policy at Deep Sea Mining at WWF Norway
Øystein Bruncell Larsen – COO Loke Marine Minerals of Norway
Rune Høyvik Rosnes, Seabed Intervention technologist, economist and business developer, Deep C
Jack Eidt is an urban planner, environmental journalist, and climate organizer, as well as award-winning fiction writer. He is Co-Founder of SoCal 350 Climate Action and Executive Producer of EcoJustice Radio. He writes a column on PBS SoCal called High & Dry [https://www.pbssocal.org/people/high-dry]. He is also Founder and Publisher of WilderUtopia [https://wilderutopia.com], a website dedicated to the question of Earth sustainability, finding society-level solutions to environmental, community, economic, transportation and energy needs.
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Executive Producer and Host: Jack Eidt
Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats
Episode 239
Updated 25 June 2025
