Deep Seabed Mining

Deep seabed mining is the recovery of polymetallic nodules, sulphides, and cobalt-rich crusts from the Area, regulated by the International Seabed Authority under UNCLOS Part XI and the 1994 Implementing Agreement. Exploration contracts are in force, but commercial exploitation awaits the ISA’s Mining Code; in 2021 Nauru triggered the two-year rule in section 1(15) of the 1994 Agreement, which obliged the Council to consider applications even without finalized regulations. The ITLOS Seabed Disputes Chamber advised on sponsoring-state responsibilities in 2011.