Scientists Discovered One of the Largest “Blood Diamonds” Reserves in the Ocean, Dozens of Tonnes Soon to Be Extracted – The Daily Galaxy –Great Discoveries Channel
A staggering discovery beneath the Pacific Ocean could shift the global supply of high-tech materials. Researchers from the University of Tokyo and the Nippon Foundation have identified a 230-million-ton deposit of rare metals, including cobalt and nickel, near Minamitori Island, a remote Japanese territory. This groundbreaking find, announced on June 21, could redefine Japan’s economic and industrial future, strengthening its position in the global technology race.The discovery comes at a time when geopolitical tensions over critical minerals are increasing. As countries race to secure supplies of rare earth elements and battery metals, Japan’s deep-sea mining efforts could offer a strategic advantage, reducing reliance on imports and bolstering its domestic industries.The vast deposit lies within Japan’s exclusive economic zone, covering 10,000 square kilometers of the ocean floor. Early estimates suggest it contains 610,000 tons of cobalt and 740,000 tons of nickel—enough to sustain Japan’s demand for 75 years and 11 years, respectively.These metals are essential components in lithium-ion batteries, which power electric vehicles, smartphones, and renewable energy storage systems. Securing a stable supply of these materials has become a global priority, particularly as nations accelerate the transition to clean energy technologies.In addition to cobalt and nickel, the deposit could contain other valuable elements such as rare earth minerals, which are used in the production of wind turbines, semiconductors, and advanced defense systems. This raises the stakes for technological independence and may lead to increased competition over deep-sea resources.To tap into this underwater wealth, Japan plans to begin a three-year experimental extraction phase in 2025. The goal is to mine thousands of tons of nodules per day, eventually scaling up to 10,000 tons daily—or 3 million tons per year.The deposit consists of polymetallic nodules, which are rock-like formations found on the ocean floor. These nodules naturally contain high concentrations of valuable metals, making them an attractive target for mining operations. Unlike land-based mining, which requires extensive excavation and processing, deep-sea mining involves collecting these nodules directly from the seabed.Backed by government agencies, private companies, and academic institutions, the project will operate under a coordinating platform led by the Nippon Foundation. The cost of this ambitious venture is expected to reach tens of millions of dollars, positioning Japan as a pioneer in deep-sea mining.Concerns over marine ecosystems have already sparked debate. The extraction process involves disturbing ocean sediments, which could have far-reaching impacts on deep-sea biodiversity. Scientists caution that the long-term consequences remain largely unknown, making the project a subject of intense scrutiny.The mining process requires specialized remotely operated vehicles to collect nodules from the seabed. These machines could disrupt delicate ecosystems, release sediment plumes, and potentially harm deep-sea organisms that rely on stable environments. Studies suggest that recovery from such disturbances could take decades, if not centuries.Professor Katō Yasuhiro, who leads the research team, emphasized that Japan aims to minimize ecological disruption while ensuring efficient extraction. Finding the right balance between economic gains and environmental responsibility will be a major challenge for the industry.This discovery could help Japan reduce its reliance on foreign imports, particularly from China, which currently dominates the rare metal supply chain. With growing global competition for critical raw materials, Japan’s push into deep-sea mining signals the beginning of a new era in resource exploration.Other nations, including the United States, China, and Norway, are also exploring deep-sea mining as a means to secure valuable mineral reserves. The International Seabed Authority, which oversees deep-sea mining regulations, is currently working on frameworks to govern commercial operations. The outcome of Japan’s efforts could set a precedent for future deep-sea mining ventures.This article was published in Kyodonews.Comment Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
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