Shocking Revelations: Why COP30 Ignored the Deep Ocean – and What It Means for Our Future!

The looming threat of deep-sea mining poses a significant risk to fragile ecosystems largely unexplored by science. This speculative industry aims to extract minerals from biodiversity hotspots in the ocean, such as hydrothermal vents and abyssal plains, which could lead to irreversible and widespread biodiversity loss. The consequences of such extraction are dire, threatening both carbon cycling and storage in the ocean, crucial functions for mitigating climate change.

Despite its risks, costs, and the fact that it’s largely unnecessary for the green energy transition, certain states and companies are eager to commence operations. Humanity now stands at a critical crossroads, faced with a once-in-a-generation decision: to either protect or devastate our planet's life support systems.

Fortunately, there is growing momentum against deep-sea mining. Over 40 countries, hundreds of scientists, local and Indigenous communities, along with several major corporations, are advocating for a moratorium to halt this destructive practice. Their unified voice is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

At the recent COP30 conference, the draft text acknowledged, for the first time, the risks linked to the unsustainable extraction and processing of critical minerals. While this acknowledgment was ultimately omitted from the final text—a disappointing setback—it nonetheless signals a positive shift. For the first time, COP is starting to address the pressing issues surrounding deep-sea mining, underscoring the necessity of putting critical minerals on the global agenda.

However, the deep sea cannot afford further missed opportunities. As we look ahead to 2026, it is imperative that governments commit to protecting our ocean’s depths. This includes mandating an end to bottom trawling on seamounts and other Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs) and adopting a moratorium on deep-sea mining through the International Seabed Authority. Such actions must be recognized as explicit climate-positive measures.

With the BBNJ Agreement, also known as the High Seas Treaty, set to enter into force in January, ocean-climate action must be prioritized from day one. The deep ocean must no longer be out of sight and out of mind. As we move into 2026, it is crucial that governments ensure the deep sea occupies a central role in decision-making processes regarding the future of our planet.

Sian Owen, the Executive Director of the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition, has dedicated over 25 years to campaigning for the protection and preservation of the deep ocean against urgent threats like destructive fishing practices and the potential for deep-sea mining. Her work is focused on integrating ocean conservation into global conversations on sustainable development, biodiversity protection, and climate change.