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SC/69B/E/08
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Resource ID
22070
Access
Open
Document Number
SC/69B/E/08
Full Title
Report of the Intersessional Correspondence Group on Deep-Sea Mining
Author
Rose, N. A. (Convenor), Barreto, A. S., Parsons, E. C. M., Porter, L., Simmonds, M. P., Smith, C. R., Thaler, A., Thompson, K., Walloe, L., Williams, R., Zerbini, A.
Authors Summary
SC/69/B/E/xx reported on the work of an intersessional correspondence group (ICG) on deep-sea mining and its potential impacts on cetaceans. The ICG?s terms of reference were to: (1) Review the topic and report back to the next SC with a further assessment of the likely consequences of deep-sea mining for cetaceans; (2) Seek to establish contact with others who are investigating this matter; and (3) Encourage further submissions on this topic to the SC. The ICG met once via Zoom and corresponded via email to prepare a report summarising the background on deep-sea mining, including information on the activity?s competent authority, the International Seabed Authority. Deep-sea mining is most likely to directly affect cetaceans due to the noise it would produce, which, inter alia, may cause masking of important signals to cetaceans, as well as alter energy budgets by displacing animals from feeding areas. It may also indirectly affect cetacean via impacts on food webs. The ICG made a number of research recommendations designed to fill substantial data gaps regarding the impact of deep-sea mining on cetaceans and their ecosystems. It recommended against investigating potential methods for mitigating deep-sea mining impacts until these data gaps are adequately addressed. The ICG also urged researchers, contractors and industry to share all they know about sound characteristics of test mining operations conducted to date. Proxies are helpful but limited in utility. Finally, the ICG noted that beaked whales in particular, due to their deep-diving behavioural ecology and cryptic nature, may require specialised survey effort. Regarding policy, the ICG recommended that the Commission join the call for a moratorium on deep-sea mining to allow these data gaps to be addressed, and that it work with other international bodies addressing deep-sea mining.
Publisher
IWC
Publication Year
2024
Abstract
This is a report of the intersessional correspondence group on deep-sea mining and its potential impacts on cetaceans.