DEEP-SEA AND ESG: BALANCING CRITICAL MINERAL DEMAND WITH OCEAN SUSTAINABILITY

The global transition towards clean energy has significantly increased the demand for critical minerals, prompting growing interest in deep-sea mining as an alternative to terrestrial resource extraction. While deep-sea mining may contribute to securing essential minerals for renewable energy technologies, it also raises complex environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns. This article examines deep-sea mining through the ESG framework, highlighting the potential risks to fragile marine ecosystems, biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and coastal communities. It further analyses the governance challenges arising from regulatory uncertainty and the evolving role of the International Seabed Authority in managing seabed resources beyond national jurisdiction. The article argues that, despite its economic potential, deep-sea mining should be approached with caution until its long-term environmental and social consequences are better understood. A precautionary, transparent, and ESG-centred regulatory framework is essential to balance the growing demand for critical minerals with the imperative of protecting ocean sustainability.