We are aware that you host scientific expertise of a direct or transferable relevance to understanding the environmental impacts of deep-sea mining. We are therefore writing to inform you that the UK Government has launched (Monday 19 February 2024) a new UK-based environmental science network, to gather the UK’s world-class research to help assess the environmental impacts of deep-sea mining.
Eligible applicants can now apply to join the network (deadline 8th April) and share their expertise to help fill in the current evidence gaps in understanding the consequences of deep-sea mining on our ecosystems. Bringing together the UK’s environmental science expertise to share internationally will help the UK ensure that the highest environmental standards are enforced on deep sea mining.
The network will work alongside the UK’s recent decision to support a moratorium on the granting of exploitation licenses for deep sea mining projects by the International Seabed Authority (ISA).
The moratorium means the UK will not sponsor or support licenses until sufficient scientific evidence is available to assess the impacts of deep-sea mining activities on marine ecosystems and strong, enforceable environmental regulations, standards and guidelines have been developed and adopted by the ISA.
We hope that eligible UK applicants from your group will consider applying to join this important scientific network, and if you might consider sharing this invitation with your colleagues and networks who may be eligible. The first meeting to take place Tues 18th June 2024 at the Natural History Museum, London. The date will be updated on the network site in due course. Detailed information about criteria for membership of the network can be found on the networks website.
If you have any questions regarding the network, please contact [email protected].
