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/ Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program. Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube 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...
