Non-government organisations are frustrated with the Cook Islands government seabed mineral consultations that are being held in New Zealand, calling for a 10-year moratorium to allow for independent research and capacity building within the Cook Islands.
Read MoreYou can read all the latest news and updates on the Cook Islands seabed minerals sector here.
A foreign company has proposed to bring in a robot to harvest the seabed, write Tailia Mika.
Read MoreSome say there is not enough evidence or data so stop, and some say well, it is from God so we must proceed, writes Thomas Tarurongo Wynne.
Read MoreWe are committed to sustainably and responsibly developing our SBM sector for the benefit of our Cook Islands people. In line with the precautionary approach, any future decision on whether or not we will allow harvesting to occur needs to be science based.
To achieve this, we need more data and information about the nature of our mineral resource and the marine environment so that we can better understand and address the potential environmental impacts and likely commercial viability. This understanding can only be obtained through exploration research work, which is why the Seabed Minerals Exploration Programme is important.
Read MoreWelcome to the latest in our science series, proudly brought to you by the Seabed Minerals Authority. Our goal is simple—to educate and empower readers by exploring the fundamental science behind deep ocean seabed minerals. Through these articles, we aim to unravel the mysteries of the deep sea and its rich resources, while showcasing the importance of sustainable and responsible exploration. Dive in with us as we journey to the ocean’s depths, discovering how each new finding brings us closer to better understanding our planet and safeguarding its future. Be sure to visit our website for more exciting science articles!
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