Key points
- Norwegian government plans January 2024 decision on opening continental shelf for deep-sea mining after 20+ years of exploration and research.
- Three types of deposits targeted: cobalt-rich manganese crusts and massive sulfides (no polymetallic nodules found in Norwegian waters).
- Norwegian Petroleum Directorate estimates ~$13 trillion in mineral value on the continental shelf, including cobalt, manganese, copper, and metals critical for energy transition.
- Norwegian Forum for Marine Minerals comprises 25+ companies and institutions; active hydrothermal vents will not be mined, only inactive deposits.
