Deep-sea mining in the Atlantic Ocean represents both an economic opportunity and an environmental challenge. This project focuses on mapping and monitoring potential mining areas, particularly hydrothermal vent fields and polymetallic sulfide deposits.

In light of Portugal’s Law No. 36/2025, which imposes a moratorium on deep-sea mining in the Atlantic until 2050, it is crucial to establish a strong scientific foundation that ensures resource exploration aligns with environmental protection and Atlantic security.

The project will provide evidence-based recommendations for environmental governance, monitoring strategies, and international policy frameworks, contributing to the sustainability management of Atlantic mineral resources.

Objectives

• Map and identify geologically favorable areas for deep-sea mining in the Atlantic.

• Assess ecological sensitivity of deep-sea ecosystems, focusing on hydrothermal vent fields and cold seeps.

• Model environmental risks associated with sediment plume dispersal and heavy metal bioavailability.

• Propose standardized long-term monitoring protocols.

• Integrate science and policy to bridge mineral exploitation and Atlantic maritime security.

Methodology

• Geological and ecological mapping using published datasets and GIS tools to integrate mineral deposits with biodiversity hotspots.

• Environmental sensitivity assessment through biodiversity indices and vulnerability models, including comparative analysis with international case studies.

• Risk modeling to simulate plume dispersion and ecological impacts on deep-sea biogeochemistry.

• Policy and security integration to translate findings into governance and security strategies for the Atlantic.

Expected outcomes

• Atlas of potential mining areas in the Atlantic with ecological and security risk profiles.

• Standardized monitoring protocols aligned with international environmental standards.

• Predictive models for plume dynamics and ecological impacts.

• Policy briefs and technical reports for decision-makers and international agencies.

• Peer-reviewed publications in marine science and policy journals.

Expected impact

By establishing a multidisciplinary framework that connects environmental science, sustainable management, and Atlantic governance, this project will bridge the gap between deep-sea resource exploitation and environmental conservation, ensuring precautionary and responsible approaches to deep-sea mining in the Atlantic.