Research shows that polymetallic nodule fields are hotspots of abundance and diversity for a highly vulnerable abyssal fauna. Because deep sea mining is a relatively new field, the complete consequences of full-scale mining operations on this ecosystem are unknown. However, some researchers have said they believe that removal of parts of the sea floor will result in disturbances to the benthic layer, increased toxicity of the water column and sediment plumes from tailings. Removing parts of the sea floor could disturb the habitat of benthic organisms, with unknown long-term effects. Preliminary studies on seabed disturbances from mining-related activities have indicated that it takes decades for the seabed to recover from minor disturbances. Minerals targeted by seabed mining activities take millions of years to regenerate, if they do so at all.Carson, Louisa. “In Deep Water: The Emerging Threat of Deep Sea Mining.” Greenpeace International, June 2019. Aside from the direct impact of mining the area, some researchers and environmental activists have raised concerns about leakage, spills and corrosion that could alter the mining area’s chemical makeup.
