Abstract
The deep ocean mining industry is in a precommercialization stage of development. In the context of a proper legal-regulatory regime, deep ocean mining system design, site survey, and operation technologies are capable of rapid evolution. This report recommends that the regulatory framework develop in parallel with the industry and presents a rationale to implement this approach. The government has several interests in deep ocean mining technology: (1) as a potential regulator, sound regulations should be based on an understanding of the technology; (2) as a potential monitor, survey technologies are relevant; and (3) as an estimator of strategic mineral supplies, it is important to understand the technology that allows economic access to deep ocean minerals. Thus, the major portion of the report presents an in-depth review of systems design, operations, and survey equipment and techniques.
