CSIRO-led research has developed new tools to help guide decisions on deep-sea mining. The study marks the first time ecosystem-based management approaches have been applied comprehensively to a deep-sea environment.
The research focuses on the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) in the Pacific Ocean. Scientists created models and frameworks to assess environmental risks and guide management strategies. The work is independent, transparent, and designed to support strong environmental protection.
Dr Piers Dunstan, Senior Principal Research Scientist at CSIRO, said the deep sea is one of Earth’s least understood ecosystems. He said science provides trusted information for decision-makers amid uncertainty.
The project included eight public reports. The research defines “serious harm” using a traffic light system: green for minor impacts, orange for moderate, and red for major, irreversible damage. The team also built a full ecosystem model linking surface waters to the seafloor and created environmental indicators to monitor biodiversity and ecosystem health.
The research shows that mining impacts are likely to be localised to the seabed. Some species groups may recover quickly if disturbed. Others may recover slowly or not at all. Monitoring would be critical if mining were to occur.
The consortium behind the project includes CSIRO, Griffith University, Museums Victoria, the University of the Sunshine Coast, and Earth Sciences New Zealand. The research is independent of mining operations and regulatory decisions.
Dr Dunstan said the methods developed can be applied to deep-sea environments worldwide. The research demonstrates that rigorous science can support informed and precautionary decision-making in fragile ecosystems.
All reports and findings are publicly available.