Deep-sea mining risks biodiversity loss lasting decades, scientists warn
Mon 11 May 2026
Image: Photo by ROV-Team/GEOMAR via Wikimedia Commons
By Shannon Morris-Williams
The first comprehensive review of deep-sea mining research has found mining could cause ecological damage lasting decades and, in some ecosystems, irreversible biodiversity loss, with New Zealand experts warning the industry poses major risks to fragile ocean environments.
Story copyright © Carbon News 2026