Greenpeace says it has recorded significant marine biodiversity in an Arctic area proposed for deep-sea mining. The environmental campaigners are conducting a survey of whales and dolphins during an Arctic expedition. Greenpeace reports that several vulnerable species were observed in the proposed mining zones.
Whale and dolphin sightings near seamounts
The survey began at the end of July and identified deep-diving species near a seamount within the mining area. Greenpeace says sperm whales and dolphins were seen in close proximity to the seamount. The findings are reported as Norway advances plans to open its waters to deep-sea mining exploration.
Greenpeace reports that, near Jan Mayen, its survey detected what appeared to be four groups of sperm whales. The campaigners describe sperm whales as “vulnerable” and capable of diving to depths of at least 2,000 meters. Additional sperm whales were also recorded, along with sightings of orcas (killer whales) and several dolphin species.
The expedition also reported minke whales and a fin whale among the sightings. Greenpeace describes the fin whale as “vulnerable” and notes it is the second-largest animal on Earth. Researchers said numerous sperm whales were observed within the mining zone, particularly around Mohns Ridge.
Greenpeace further reports that white-beaked dolphins, a minke whale, and a sperm whale were seen near the Louise Boyd Seamount. The campaigners’ observations cover multiple locations within the proposed mining area. The survey team is continuing its work while Norway’s deep-sea mining plans move forward.
Deep-sea mining activities and potential environmental risks
Deep-sea mining involves extracting metals and minerals from the ocean floor, according to the report. Greenpeace says full-scale commercial operations have not yet begun. Environmentalists and scientists have raised concerns about potential pollution, underwater noise, and irreversible damage to ecosystems.
The concerns cited in the report include impacts on ecosystems described as crucial carbon sinks. Greenpeace’s account links these concerns to the presence of vulnerable marine species in areas proposed for extraction. The expedition’s observations are presented alongside Norway’s ongoing regulatory steps for seabed mineral activity.
Manganese crust areas and Norway’s permit consultation
Greenpeace says its team passed through regions on the Norwegian continental shelf where manganese crusts are located. Manganese crusts are described as underwater rock formations of interest to some mining companies. Haldis Tjeldflaat Helle, a Greenpeace campaigner aboard the expedition, criticized Norway’s approach in relation to scientific understanding and environmental protection.
In June, the Norwegian government initiated a public consultation on its first round of seabed mineral extraction permits. Greenpeace reports that the consultation covers 386 blocks, an area described as twice the size of Denmark. The expedition is expected to continue surveying the mining area during travel from Jan Mayen Island through international waters to Svalbard.
The journey is expected to conclude in mid-August after nearly 20 days at sea. Greenpeace says it will continue collecting observations during this period. The reported sightings form part of the campaigners’ ongoing survey work in Arctic waters associated with planned deep-sea mining exploration.