US may not set the rules but can still shape the future of deep-sea mining

Time is running out for the United States to have a voice in managing deep-sea mining. The International Seabed Authority (ISA) will soon meet to advance the commercial framework regulating the mining of metals essential for the clean energy transition, aiming for adoption next year.

The US is dependent on its allies and partners for securing access to seabed minerals; this is linked to its non-participation in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos). Without ratifying the treaty, it has no direct route to asserting its rights or taking part in international seabed mining activities governed by the ISA.

Consequently, to gain access to the rich mineral resources on the ocean floor, the US must depend on collaborative ventures with countries that are signatories to Unclos and have the requisite legal entitlements and operational capabilities.

Read the full article here: https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3268628/us-may-not-set-rules-can-still-shape-future-deep-sea-mining