Our oceans are the source of all life - a fascinating world full of secrets, many of which are still shrouded in mystery. But these hidden depths are in danger. Deep-sea mining, the extraction of mineral resources from kilometres of ocean trenches, is imminent. What sounds like a distant problem to many affects us all: the climate, biodiversity and the survival of millions of species and people.
The threat of deep-sea mining
The deep sea is more than just a habitat - it is a vast, fragile network that forms the basis of our oceans. Here are seven reasons why the destruction of the deep sea affects us all:
- Incalculable risk:
We know less about the deep sea than we do about space. Any kind of intervention is a blind flight with unforeseeable consequences. - Destruction of a unique habitat:
The deep sea has its own rules and rhythms. A disturbance will disrupt essential processes in the oceans. - Species extinction in the deep:
Every intervention threatens the loss of undiscovered species. Irreparable damage to biodiversity. - Hunger in humans and animals:
If the biodiversity in the deep sea disappears, a food chain that feeds both marine animals and millions of people worldwide will collapse. - No way back:
The deep sea does not recover in decades, but needs decades to regenerate from destruction - if at all. - influence on the climate:
The deep sea is one of the largest natural CO₂ reservoirs. Its destruction means more greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and a massive increase in climate change. - Research instead of destruction:
We still know far too little to be sure about the consequences of such an intervention. Science instead of exploitation is the only responsible way forward.
Successes and hopes
The resistance to deep-sea mining shows that commitment has an impact. Thanks to massive pressure, Norway will not issue any licences for deep-sea mining in the Arctic in 2025 - a small but significant victory. However, the decision on deep-sea mining in international waters is imminent. The International Seabed Authority (ISA) could give the green light for a global catastrophe as early as summer 2025.
What can we do?
Time is of the essence. Now is the time to speak up. Every contribution counts:
- Donate: Support organisations like Greenpeace that have been fighting deep sea mining for years.
- Inform and share: Spread the word and raise awareness among friends and family.
👉 Donate now and protect the deep sea:
- Greenpeace - SOS from the deep sea
- Greenpeace - Seven reasons to protect the deep sea
The deep sea is a miracle of nature - our CO₂ buffer, a treasure trove of life and an immeasurable legacy for future generations. Its destruction is not just a loss for the oceans, but for humanity as a whole. Each of us can be part of the solution. Let's act before it's too late.
