Whilst the discussion about the consequences of climate change above the sea surface is quite prominent, the question what the ocean floor has to do with climate change is less known but by no means less important to our planet. 

Deep sea mining is very controversial. It primarily involves the extraction of manganese nodules from the bottom of the high seas. These are formed over millions of years and contain raw materials such as manganese, cobalt, copper and nickel, which manufacturers could use for batteries for electric cars, for example. So on the one side these raw materials are important for our changing mobility needs. On the other hand, studies show dangers for the still little researched ecosystems of the deep sea. Some experts are also questioning the necessity of deep-sea mining for the energy transition.

It is therefore notable that Brazilian oceanographer Leticia Carvalho is to become the new head of the International Seabed Authority (ISA). She won the election at the end of the five-day General Assembly in the Caribbean island state of Jamaica and will take office next year. Ahead of the expected first application for a deep-sea mining licence, the controversial Secretary General of the ISA, Michael Lodge, has thus missed out on re-election. Environmental activists hope that the new leader will improve the protection of the oceans.

As usual, there are no easy answers to complex problems - but I welcome the decision to review any premature decisions on exploiting our ocean floors.