Andrew Lewin discusses the recent election of Brazilian oceanographer Leticia Carvalho as the next Secretary General of the International Seabed Authority. Carvalho's victory could potentially impact the future of deep sea mining. Tune in to learn more about what this means for the ocean and how you can take action to support ocean conservation.

Link to article: https://news.mongabay.com/2024/08/brazils-carvalho-to-lead-isa-following-predecessors-controversial-term/

Leticia Carvalho, a Brazilian oceanographer, has been elected as the next Secretary General of the International Seabed Authority (ISA), marking a significant shift in leadership for the organization. Carvalho's election brings a new era of transparency and accountability to the ISA, as she has emphasized the importance of these values in her campaign.

With a background in oceanography and experience as an international civil servant for the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), Carvalho is well-positioned to lead the ISA in a sustainable and responsible manner. As the first woman, first oceanographer, and first representative from Latin America to hold this position, Carvalho's election is a historic moment for the ISA.

Under the previous leadership of Michael Lodge, concerns arose regarding transparency and neutrality within the ISA, particularly in relation to deep-sea mining activities. Lodge's tenure saw efforts to finalize the mining code for deep-sea exploration, but this was not achieved during his term. Allegations of advocating for mining companies and misusing agency funds further raised doubts about the ISA's commitment to marine environment protection.

Carvalho's election signifies a move towards a more balanced approach to deep-sea mining, focusing on transparency, sustainability, and marine habitat preservation. Her dedication to upholding the ISA's mandate and promoting sound ocean governance, prioritizing the precautionary principle, sets a positive tone for future deep-sea mining regulation.

As the ISA progresses under Carvalho's leadership, there is an opportunity to advocate for a new direction in deep-sea mining that considers the long-term health of the ocean and its benefits for future generations. Carvalho's election is a victory for those supporting responsible ocean management and establishes a foundation for a more inclusive and transparent decision-making process within the ISA.

The push for deep-sea mining has raised significant concerns about transparency, environmental impacts, and the necessity for sustainable practices. Leticia Carvalho's recent election as the next Secretary General of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) underscores the importance of addressing these issues. Carvalho's victory over the previous Secretary General, Michael Lodge, who faced accusations of supporting mining companies and lacking transparency, signals a shift towards more accountable and environmentally conscious leadership within the ISA.

Deep-sea mining is a contentious issue involving the extraction of seabed minerals for various purposes, including addressing metal shortages and providing materials for renewable energy technologies like electric car batteries. While proponents argue for the essential nature of these minerals for technological progress, critics warn of potential irreparable damage to the seabed and marine environment. The lack of understanding regarding the impacts of deep-sea mining, such as disruption to oxygen production and biodiversity in deep-sea habitats, underscores the need for caution and comprehensive regulation.

The ISA, as the governing body overseeing deep-sea mining activities, plays a crucial role in ensuring that mining operations are conducted sustainably and transparently. Carvalho's focus on transparency and commitment to upholding the ISA's mandate to protect the ocean and marine habitats signal a positive step towards responsible deep-sea mining practices. The ISA's role in balancing the interests of mining companies, environmental conservation, and the well-being of future generations underscores the complexity of the issue and the importance of thorough deliberation and regulation before granting exploitation licenses.

The concerns surrounding deep-sea mining echo past environmental challenges, such as the negative impacts of fossil fuel extraction and land-based mining activities. The rush for short-term economic gains has often led to long-term environmental degradation and social consequences. By prioritizing transparency, environmental protection, and sustainable practices, the ISA under Carvalho's leadership has the opportunity to champion a new approach to deep-sea mining governance that safeguards the health of the deep sea and its benefits for future generations.

Overall, the episode highlights the critical need for transparency, environmental stewardship, and sustainable practices in the context of deep-sea mining. Leticia Carvalho's appointment as the new Secretary General of the ISA represents a significant step towards addressing these concerns and ensuring that deep-sea mining is conducted responsibly and in the best interest of the ocean and its ecosystems.

One of the key takeaways from the episode is the significance of Leticia Carvalho's appointment as the next Secretary General of the International Seabed Authority (ISA). Her election marks a pivotal shift towards prioritizing sound ocean governance, the precautionary principle, and the protection of deep-sea ecosystems for future generations.

Carvalho's victory over her predecessor, Michael Lodge, by a significant margin reflects a clear mandate for change within the ISA. Lodge's tenure was marked by accusations of favoring mining companies and lacking transparency in the ISA's processes. In contrast, Carvalho's campaign emphasized the importance of transparency in decision-making within the ISA, signaling a commitment to open and accountable governance.

The appointment of Carvalho, as the first woman, first oceanographer, and first representative from Latin America to serve as the ISA Secretary General, brings a fresh perspective to the leadership role. Her background as an oceanographer and experience working with the United Nations Environment Program positions her well to advocate for the protection of deep-sea ecosystems and the sustainable management of seabed resources.

The episode highlights the potential risks associated with deep-sea mining, including irreparable damage to the seabed and marine environment. Carvalho's stance against granting exploitation licenses before robust regulations are in place underscores her commitment to upholding the precautionary principle. By prioritizing environmental protection and sustainable practices, Carvalho aims to secure the health of the deep sea and its benefits for future generations.

Overall, Carvalho's appointment represents a significant step towards fostering responsible ocean governance and ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of deep-sea ecosystems. As she takes on her new role in January 2025, there is optimism that under her leadership, the ISA will champion a new way forward that balances the needs of industry with the protection of the marine environment for the benefit of present and future generations.

On today's episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, the focus is on deep-sea mining and the leadership of the International Seabed Authority (ISA). The episode discusses the recent developments and different countries' stances on deep-sea mining, with some advocating for a moratorium and others taking a precautionary pause.

Please tune in to learn more about the current state of deep-sea mining and the push for a leadership change to steer it in a direction that aligns with the desires of many.

Link to articles: 
1) https://amp-theguardian-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/amp.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/29/inside-the-battle-for-top-job-that-will-decide-the-future-of-deep-sea-mining

2) https://deep-sea-conservation.org/solutions/no-deep-sea-mining/

The leadership of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) is currently under scrutiny and potential change due to concerns about trust and transparency. The current leader, Lodge, has been accused of being too closely aligned with the mining industry, lacking transparency, and advocating for the acceleration of deep-sea mining activities. This has resulted in a lack of trust among member states and a division of views within the Council.

Leticia Carvalho, sponsored by the Brazilian government, is a candidate for leadership, emphasizing the need for meaningful transformation within the ISA. She stresses the importance of trust and strong leadership within the organization, especially given the ISA's dual mandate to authorize and regulate mining for the common heritage of all mankind while safeguarding marine environments from harmful impacts.

The potential change in leadership comes at a critical juncture for deep-sea mining and the future of the world's oceans. The decision on the new leader could have significant implications for the emerging industry and the approach taken towards deep-sea mining. Carvalho's background as an oceanographer and international diplomat, coupled with her focus on a precautionary approach and transparency, contrasts with the concerns raised about Lodge's leadership.

The controversy surrounding the leadership of the ISA reflects broader concerns about the trajectory of deep-sea mining and the necessity for responsible and sustainable practices. The choice of the new leader will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of deep-sea mining and its impact on marine ecosystems. Trust and transparency are essential components in ensuring that decisions made by the ISA align with the objective of safeguarding the ocean for future generations.

The debate surrounding deep-sea mining, as discussed in the podcast episode, underscores the critical need for a precautionary approach to protect the marine environment and deep-sea ecosystems. The ISA's role in authorizing and regulating mining activities while aiming to shield the marine environment from harmful impacts is crucial. However, concerns have been raised about the current leadership of the ISA, with allegations of a lack of transparency and potential bias towards the mining industry.

The episode highlights the contrasting views within the ISA, with some countries advocating for a moratorium or precautionary pause on deep-sea mining due to uncertainties and potential risks. The discovery of dark oxygen in the deep sea further emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough research and understanding the ecosystem before engaging in mining activities.

The push by certain countries and mining companies to expedite deep-sea mining without established rules and regulations raises significant concerns. The lack of transparency in decision-making processes and potential conflicts of interest further underscore the need for a precautionary approach.

Leticia Carvalho, a Brazilian oceanographer and diplomat, has emerged as a candidate for leadership within the ISA, advocating for meaningful transformation and addressing the lack of trust and leadership within the organization. Carvalho's emphasis on the importance of thorough rule development and the necessity of completing regulations before approving any mining applications aligns with the precautionary approach needed to protect deep-sea ecosystems.

In conclusion, the debate surrounding deep-sea mining highlights the importance of adopting a precautionary approach to ensure the long-term sustainability and protection of the marine environment and deep-sea ecosystems. It is crucial to prioritize transparency, scientific research, and the development of robust regulations before proceeding with any mining activities in the deep sea.

The decision on the leadership of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) holds immense implications for the future of deep-sea mining and the health of the world's oceans. As discussed in the podcast episode, the current leader, Lodge, has faced criticism for his alleged close relationship with the mining industry, lack of transparency, and push for the acceleration of deep-sea mining. On the other hand, Leticia Carvalho, sponsored by the Brazilian government, is running for leadership, emphasizing the need for trust and meaningful transformation within the ISA.

The ISA, governed by 168 member states plus the European Union, plays a crucial role in authorizing and regulating mining for the common heritage of all mankind while protecting marine environments from harmful impacts. The decision on the leadership will determine the direction in which deep-sea mining progresses. With increasing concerns and calls for a moratorium or precautionary pause on deep-sea mining from various countries, the choice of leadership will shape the regulatory framework and approach towards deep-sea mining.

The episode highlights the urgency of understanding the deep-sea environment better before proceeding with mining activities. Recent discoveries, such as the potential role of nodules in producing oxygen in the deep sea, underscore the importance of thorough research and a precautionary approach. The lack of transparency and concerns over conflicts of interest within the ISA further emphasize the need for a leader who prioritizes ocean health and sustainable practices over expedited mining operations.

Ultimately, the decision on the leadership of the ISA will impact not only the future of deep-sea mining but also the health and sustainability of the world's oceans. It is crucial to have a leader who prioritizes transparency, scientific research, and the protection of marine ecosystems to ensure responsible and sustainable deep-sea mining practices.

Andrew Lewin dives into the controversial topic of deep-sea mining and its implications for the environment. He questions whether mining the deep sea for metals to create electric vehicle batteries truly benefits the planet or if there are better alternatives. The discussion raises concerns about the potential impact on the ocean and the need to explore alternative solutions for a sustainable future.

Link to article: https://www.sciencealert.com/mysterious-dark-oxygen-discovered-at-bottom-of-ocean-stuns-scientists

Deep sea nodules, highly sought after for mining due to their valuable metal content, have recently been discovered to play a crucial role in oxygen production in the deep sea. Composed of cobalt, manganese, and nickel, these nodules form a polymetallic matrix that can generate a significant voltage when clustered together. This voltage is essential for splitting oxygen from water, a process that typically requires light for photosynthesis to occur. However, in the dark depths of the deep sea where light does not penetrate, these nodules serve as natural geobatteries, generating the necessary voltage to produce oxygen.

The discovery of oxygen production by deep sea nodules challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding deep sea mining. While deep sea mining has been promoted as a means to extract valuable metals for various industries, the potential impact on oxygen production in the deep sea raises significant concerns. The presence of these nodules not only supports diverse ecosystems but also contributes to the geochemical processes that sustain life in the deep sea.

The revelation that deep sea nodules are involved in oxygen production underscores the complexity of deep sea ecosystems and the interconnectedness of marine life. The implications of deep sea mining on oxygen production and ecosystem health must be carefully considered in light of this new information. The balance between economic interests and environmental conservation becomes even more delicate when the fundamental role of these nodules in oxygen production is taken into account.

This discovery prompts a reevaluation of the necessity and sustainability of deep sea mining practices. It raises questions about the long-term consequences of extracting nodules from their natural habitat and the potential disruption to oxygen production and deep sea ecosystems. As we continue to explore and understand the deep sea, it is essential to prioritize the protection of these vital ecosystems and consider alternative approaches to resource extraction that minimize harm to the environment.

The discovery of "dark oxygen" in the deep sea, as discussed in the podcast episode, has significant implications for the ongoing debate surrounding deep-sea mining. The revelation that certain nodules sought after for mining are actually contributing to oxygen production in the deep sea challenges the perceived necessity of deep-sea mining for metals like cobalt, manganese, and nickel.

The presence of these nodules, which create a polymetallic matrix capable of producing oxygen, raises questions about the trade-off between resource extraction and environmental conservation. Deep sea mining companies have invested substantial resources in developing technologies to extract these nodules efficiently. However, the newfound understanding of the role of these nodules in oxygen production highlights the potential consequences of disrupting deep-sea habitats for mining purposes.

The episode emphasizes the importance of considering the impact of deep-sea mining on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Areas rich in these nodules exhibit higher biodiversity levels compared to mined regions, indicating the potential ecological harm caused by mining activities. The interconnected nature of deep-sea ecosystems underscores the need to evaluate the long-term effects of deep-sea mining on species dispersal and habitat connectivity.

Furthermore, the discovery of "dark oxygen" challenges the traditional understanding of oxygen production in the absence of sunlight. This raises questions about the origins of aerobic life and the evolution of complex organisms in oxygen-deprived environments. The implications of disrupting the natural processes that contribute to oxygen production in the deep sea underscore the need for a more comprehensive assessment of the environmental costs and benefits of deep-sea mining.

In conclusion, the revelation of "dark oxygen" in the deep sea prompts a reevaluation of the necessity and consequences of deep-sea mining. It calls for a balanced approach that considers both the economic benefits of resource extraction and the preservation of deep-sea habitats and biodiversity. The ongoing debate surrounding deep-sea mining must now incorporate the newfound knowledge of oxygen production in the deep sea to make informed decisions about the future of deep-sea exploration and conservation.

The discovery of oxygen-producing nodules in the deep sea sheds light on the intricate interconnectedness of ocean ecosystems and the potential consequences of deep sea mining on marine life dispersal and population dynamics. The presence of these nodules, sought after for mining due to their metal content, plays a crucial role in providing oxygen in the dark depths of the ocean where photosynthesis is not possible.

The episode discusses how these nodules, composed of cobalt, manganese, and nickel, create a polymetallic matrix that can produce enough voltage to split oxygen from water without the need for sunlight. This process not only sustains oxygen levels in the deep sea but also supports a more biodiverse community of animals in areas where these nodules are present. The higher diversity of fauna in nodular-rich regions compared to unmined areas underscores the importance of these nodules in maintaining healthy deep-sea ecosystems.

Furthermore, the episode raises questions about the potential impacts of deep-sea mining on marine life dispersal and population dynamics. It highlights the interconnected nature of ocean ecosystems, where organisms rely on various mechanisms, such as larval dispersal, to populate different areas of the deep sea. The removal of nodules through mining could disrupt these natural processes, leading to changes in population dynamics and potentially affecting the overall health and resilience of deep-sea ecosystems.

Overall, the presence of oxygen-producing nodules in the deep sea serves as a reminder of the delicate balance within marine ecosystems and the need for careful consideration of the impacts of human activities, such as deep-sea mining, on these interconnected systems. The episode prompts a critical examination of the trade-offs between resource extraction and ecosystem conservation in the deep sea, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices to protect the biodiversity and functioning of these unique and fragile environments.

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin dives into the controversial topic of deep-sea mining. While the focus has been on COP28, Andrew shifts the conversation to the recent developments in deep sea mining. He highlights reports from Greenpeace and mining websites that discuss countries and companies eager to start testing or continue testing deep-sea mining. Andrew raises questions about the viability and financial motivations behind these efforts.

Tune in to learn more about the potential impacts of deep-sea mining and how it may affect our oceans.

Links to article:
1) https://www.miningweekly.com/article/a-showdown-over-deep-sea-mining-is-taking-place-in-the-pacific-2023-11-28
2) https://www.greenpeace.org/international/press-release/64213/norways-greenlight-for-deep-sea-mining-in-the-arctic-shatters-international-credibility/
3) https://www.euronews.com/green/2023/08/02/deep-sea-mining-heres-which-countries-oppose-and-support-the-controversial-practice

The host of the podcast, Andrew Lewin, has recently launched a daily newsletter dedicated to providing valuable information about the ocean. This newsletter serves as a complementary resource to the podcast episodes, ensuring that listeners stay up to date with ocean-related news that may not be covered in the show. Describing it as an "information highway," the host encourages listeners to access the newsletter either through the podcast or by subscribing to receive it directly in their inbox every weekday morning. Stressing its significance, the host emphasizes that the newsletter is a valuable tool for staying informed about ocean-related matters and urges listeners to sign up for it.

Excitingly, the podcast host announces the inclusion of job postings in the newsletter. These job opportunities are specifically related to the ocean and provide details about their locations and the organizations offering them. The host expresses enthusiasm for this new addition and hopes that it will gain traction among the audience. The overarching goal of the podcast and the host's company, Speak Up For Blue Media and Communications, is to inform listeners about ocean-related developments, empowering them to advocate for the ocean and take action towards its betterment. By signing up for the newsletter, which is sent every weekday morning, listeners can stay up to date with the latest information and job postings related to the ocean.

The podcast, titled "How to Protect the Ocean," and its host's company, Speak Up For Blue Media and Communications, are dedicated to educating listeners about the state of the ocean and inspiring them to become advocates for its preservation. Andrew Lewin emphasizes the importance of speaking up for the ocean and encourages listeners to actively engage and make a difference. The podcast aims to raise awareness about various ocean-related issues, including deep-sea mining, and foster meaningful conversations and discussions among its audience. Additionally, the host mentions a newsletter that listeners can subscribe to, ensuring they receive regular updates and information about the ocean. Overall, the podcast and the host's company are committed to educating and empowering listeners to protect and conserve the ocean.