The deep ocean, once considered a pristine and untouched realm, is increasingly becoming a target for resource extraction. Driven by the growing global demand for critical minerals like cobalt, nickel, and manganese, which are essential for batteries and other technologies, companies are exploring deep-sea mining as a potential solution. These minerals are found in polymetallic nodules scattered across the seabed, particularly in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) of the Pacific Ocean. However, deep-sea mining poses significant challenges to the marine environment. The process involves disturbing the seabed, potentially releasing plumes of sediment that could smother benthic communities—the diverse array of organisms that live on the seafloor. These communities, many of which are still largely unknown to science, play crucial roles in the ocean's ecosystem, influencing nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration. Furthermore, the noise and light pollution generated by mining operations could disrupt the behavior and communication of marine animals, including vulnerable species like deep-sea corals and sponges, which grow exceptionally slowly and have limited capacity for regeneration. The economic benefits of deep-sea mining are touted by proponents as a way to secure vital resources for the green energy transition. However, the environmental risks are considerable and poorly understood. The potential long-term impacts on biodiversity, ecosystem function, and the overall health of the ocean are subjects of ongoing scientific debate. A comprehensive assessment of the environmental costs versus the economic benefits is crucial for informed decision-making. This requires further scientific research, robust environmental regulations, and international cooperation to ensure that the exploitation of deep-sea resources is balanced with the protection of this unique and vulnerable ecosystem. The sustainable development of deep-sea resources is not merely an environmental issue; it's a complex interplay between economics, science, and international relations.
1. According to the passage, what is the primary driver behind the interest in deep-sea mining?
2. What is a major environmental concern associated with deep-sea mining?
3. What is the author's stance on deep-sea mining?
4. What is the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) mentioned in the passage?
5. The passage suggests that sustainable development of deep-sea resources requires: