Workshop Rationale

Workshop Organization and Outline

General Mining Scenarios

What do we know about the ecosystem characteristics (physical and chemical) of the midwater environment in potential mining regions?

What do we know about midwater ecology and biology in potential mining regions?

How do current mining technology scenarios vary in terms of potential plume characteristics (e.g. potential discharge depths, source materials and particle characteristics)?

What are the potential effects of sediment plumes on the midwater fauna and what are their likely spatial and temporal scales?

What are the knowledge and technology gaps that must be filled in order to predict and manage the effects of deep-sea mining on pelagic ecosystems?

What information is required to establish appropriate environmental baselines of the water column in mining regions and their effects on the ecosystem? What variables could be measured for a pelagic ecosystem monitoring program?

The nature of chemical/dissolved plumes generated from mining activities

How can our outcomes inform management with respect to exploration and emerging exploitation regulations, so that they can ensure effective protection of the marine environment and avoid serious harm?