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Review and Integrated Framework for Deep-Sea Mineral Resources, Ecological Influence, and Future Development
Jia Liu1,2, Can Wang2,3, Ini-Ibehe Nabuk Etim2,4
1The School of Bioengineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, China, qlu.edu.cn.
International Journal of Microbiology
|March 6, 2026
Summary
Deep-sea mining for vital minerals risks fragile ecosystems. This review assesses mining impacts, highlighting long-term ecological risks and the need for sustainable exploitation standards.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Environmental Science
- Oceanography
Background:
- Declining land-based resources drive deep-sea mineral exploration.
- Deep-sea minerals include polymetallic nodules, sulfides, and cobalt-rich crusts.
- Deep-sea ecosystems are fragile and vulnerable to mining disturbances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review deep-sea mineral extraction and utilization.
- To analyze ecological and environmental consequences of deep-sea mining.
- To discuss emerging technologies for sustainable deep-sea resource recovery.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of deep-sea mining impacts.
- Analysis of ecological and geochemical consequences.
- Synthesis of current technologies and future approaches.
Main Results:
- Deep-sea mining activities significantly impact seabed, water column, and surface environments.
- Sediment plumes can disperse 5-10 km, with benthic recovery taking decades to centuries.
- Ecological impacts are more severe than previously anticipated due to ecosystem fragility.
Conclusions:
- Comprehensive ecological impact assessments are crucial for responsible deep-sea resource development.
- Effective environmental monitoring and governance systems are needed.
- This review serves as a reference for developing international standards for sustainable deep-sea mining.
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