VVD and CDA want to investigate the possibilities of deep sea mining, extracting raw materials from the depths of the ocean floor. There are many essential raw materials for the energy transition, such as nickel and cobalt. The Netherlands still have doubts and therefore risk losing the opportunity.
Currently, many supply chains of raw materials important for the energy transition are largely in the hands of China. According to Erkens, there is a wealth of raw materials on the seabed with which the Netherlands and Europe could reduce their dependence on the Chinese. “That way we won’t have another energy crisis like we had with Russia,” Erkens says in a conversation with political journalist Mats Akkerman.
The Netherlands has not yet taken a stand and, according to Erkens, risks falling behind on the facts due to this dubious attitude. ‘The Netherlands are worrying about whether we should do it or ban it. Both paths don’t seem sensible to us, as the Netherlands needs to figure out how to do it responsibly in the future.’
Climate organizations
According to Greenpeace, deep-sea mining is an irresponsible practice that can cause serious damage to the ecosystem on the ocean floor. However, Erkens calls it “naive” to decide not to do it at this stage, because many countries around the world will be working with it. “I think it’s best to think together about how to do this as responsibly as possible.”
The Netherlands in particular, with its strong and innovative maritime sector, could play an important role in establishing the international legislation and regulations needed for deep-sea mining, says Erkens. The Dutch shipping industry is aware of this and can ensure that this is done responsibly.’
permissions
Pending the investigation into the possible ecological consequences, VVD and CDA want permits to be requested for future exploitation. For example, for an area of the Pacific Ocean the size of the United States, where there are a lot of raw materials. If further research shows that the ecological consequences of mining are still too great, then, according to Erkens, we can always make the decision to keep large parts of the area as a nature reserve.
The VVD member seems confident that the research shows that there are places where deep sea mining is possible under certain conditions. But, he points out, we don’t know enough right now. “We’ve only explored about 1% of that area. If you can’t make an informed decision, you’re on the sidelines. Then the whole area will go to countries like China, and the result will be much worse than if we participate”.
Source: BNR
Sharon Rock is an author and journalist who writes for 24 News Globe. She has a passion for learning about different cultures and understanding the complexities of the world. With a talent for explaining complex global issues in an accessible and engaging way, Sharon has become a respected voice in the field of world news journalism.
