Norway's Deep-Sea Mineral Mining: Opportunities and Risks

Deep within the seabed between Norway and Greenland lies a treasure trove of valuable minerals such as cobalt and copper, essential for modern clean technologies. Norway is eager to tap into these resources, estimated to value around $92 billion, as existing land sources are predominantly controlled by China. Companies like Loke Marine Minerals utilize advanced robotic tools to explore these underwater reserves, presenting an ongoing challenge to balance resource extraction with environmental preservation. Mining in this largely unexplored area is not only an engineering feat but also invites significant controversy, as critics warn of potential harm to delicate deep-sea ecosystems. Norway’s environmental assessments and parliament's approval are critical prerequisites before any substantial mining operations commence. Meanwhile, the United States observes closely, facing legislative hurdles and lacking access to the deep-sea mining landscape like Norway. The ongoing exploration endeavors highlight the necessity for more knowledge and responsible practices, as mining could enable a greener future, while also posing risks to the environment.