Hawaii recently adopted a new law, which prohibits the exploitation of the seabed in the territorial waters of the state. In this way, support was provided to other countries that have already expressed their position against this kind of mining, calling for a ban or a pause in the extraction of minerals from the seabed, of which there are 27 so far. When it comes to the United States, this kind of legislation is similarly already implemented in California, Washington and Oregon.
Hawaii’s new Seabed Mining Prevention Act prohibits the mining, extraction and removal of minerals, with certain exceptions. As stated, it is about the restoration of beaches and scientific research aimed at preserving the environment and improving knowledge.
Although the ban covers an area up to three miles from the coast of Hawaii, this is a significant decision in supporting the growing resistance to such mining around the world.
Oceans and seas are very important for preserving the health of the entire planet. Mining directly endangers the survival of healthy and functional habitats for sea creatures. During mining, the formation of sedimentary clouds can occur, and as reported by the world media, it can spread over long distances, creating cloudy water. This further leads to stopping the penetration of sunlight into the depths of the sea. Also, such activities create noise that can disturb and even endanger sea creatures that use sound as communication for food, movement, and more.
Such a decision is important not only for the preservation of biodiversity and the environment, but also for the local fishing industry and the rights of the natives, reports the world media.
The electric vehicle industry is cited as one of the main causes of increased demand for seabed exploitation. It is actually about batteries for electric vehicles, whose currently necessary components are copper, nickel, manganese and cobalt, and which are located right on the seabed.
As reported by the world media, certain manufacturers of electric vehicles also support a moratorium on the exploitation of the seabed, and as further stated, what needs to be supported more is the development of the battery recycling industry.
Energy portal
Source: energetskiportal.rs
