UN Body Faces Critical Decision on Seabed Mining Ahead of Leadership Election

The Jamaica-based International Seabed Authority is set to elect its next leader amid significant pressure to establish a regulatory framework for deep-sea mining. The authority ended its latest session without consensus, raising concerns about potential unregulated mining applications. The election is scheduled for August 2, with Michael Lodge seeking a third term against challenger Leticia Carvalho.

The International Seabed Authority, a UN body regulating deep international waters, is poised to elect its next leader, a crucial position as it faces mounting pressure to decide on seabed mining regulations.

During a recent two-week session, the authority failed to reach a consensus on a regulatory framework for deep-sea mining, sparking concerns about potential unregulated mining applications. The upcoming election, set for August 2, sees current leader Michael Lodge seeking a third term against Brazilian oceanographer Leticia Carvalho.

The authority's debate over seabed mining remains contentious, with scientists highlighting the environmental risks and some companies and countries calling for a moratorium. Conversely, proponents argue that deep-sea mining is more cost-effective and less impactful than land mining. The decision on whether to commence exploitation remains unresolved.

(With inputs from agencies.)