Daily Current Affairs : 24-July-2023
In recent news, the member nations of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) have come together to agree on a two-year roadmap aimed at establishing regulations for deep-sea mining. This significant step reflects the collective efforts of nations to develop a comprehensive code for the extraction of valuable minerals like nickel, cobalt, and copper from the deep seabed areas that lie beyond national jurisdictions.
About the International Seabed Authority (ISA)
The International Seabed Authority, or ISA, is an international organization that was established in 1994 with the primary purpose of regulating mining and related activities in the international seabed, which is situated beyond the territorial waters of any specific country. The formation of the ISA was based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), a critical agreement that addresses various aspects of ocean governance, including territorial waters, sea-lanes, and the responsible use of ocean resources.
ISA’s Structure and Functions
The headquarters of the ISA is located in Kingston, Jamaica. The supreme decision-making body of the ISA is the assembly, which comprises representatives from all member nations. The assembly plays a crucial role in setting general policies, establishing budgets, and electing a 36-member council that serves as the executive authority of the ISA.
One of the key responsibilities of the council is to approve contracts between private corporations and government entities for exploration and mining activities in the international seabed. Additionally, the council oversees the proper implementation of the seabed provisions outlined in the UNCLOS.
The position of the secretary-general of the ISA is essential for the smooth functioning of the organization. Nominated by the council and elected by the assembly, the secretary-general serves a four-year term and plays a vital role in coordinating and facilitating the activities of the ISA.
The ISA’s Efforts in Supporting Marine Scientific Research
In 2006, recognizing the importance of collaborative marine scientific research, the ISA established the Endowment Fund to Support Collaborative Marine Scientific Research on the International Seabed Area. The primary objective of this fund is to encourage and support scientists from developing countries in contributing to global marine studies. By providing financial assistance, the ISA aims to promote scientific knowledge and understanding of the diverse ecosystems present in the international seabed area.
The Roadmap for Deep-Sea Mining Regulations
The recent agreement among ISA member nations regarding a two-year roadmap marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of responsible deep-sea mining. The roadmap outlines a step-by-step plan to develop and adopt regulations that will govern the exploitation of valuable minerals, including nickel, cobalt, and copper, found in the deep seabed.
Key Components of the Roadmap:
- Research and Data Collection: The first phase of the roadmap involves comprehensive research and data collection to understand the ecological, environmental, and socio-economic impacts of deep-sea mining. This step is crucial in making informed decisions and developing sustainable practices.
- Stakeholder Consultations: In the next phase, the ISA will engage in consultations with various stakeholders, including scientists, environmentalists, indigenous communities, and mining industries. This participatory approach aims to gather diverse perspectives and ensure that the regulations consider the interests of all parties involved.
- Drafting of Regulations: Based on the research findings and stakeholder inputs, the ISA will proceed to draft the deep-sea mining regulations. These regulations will outline guidelines for mining activities, environmental protection measures, and equitable distribution of benefits.
- Review and Approval: The drafted regulations will undergo a thorough review process, involving experts in marine biology, environmental science, and law. The final version will be presented to the ISA assembly for approval.
Important Points:
- The International Seabed Authority (ISA) is an international organization established in 1994 to regulate mining and related activities in the international seabed beyond national jurisdiction.
- ISA operates under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which governs territorial waters, sea-lanes, and ocean resources.
- ISA’s headquarters is located in Kingston, Jamaica.
- The assembly, representing all member nations, is the supreme authority of ISA and sets general policies, budgets, and elects a 36-member council.
- The council is responsible for approving contracts for exploration and mining in the international seabed and oversees UNCLOS implementation.
- The secretary-general, elected by the assembly, plays a crucial role in coordinating ISA’s activities for a four-year term.
- ISA established the Endowment Fund to Support Collaborative Marine Scientific Research in 2006, promoting scientific contributions from scientists in developing countries.
- Member nations of ISA have agreed on a two-year roadmap to develop regulations for deep-sea mining.
- The roadmap includes research, data collection, and stakeholder consultations to understand the ecological and socio-economic impacts.
- Drafting of regulations will follow, considering stakeholder inputs and expert reviews.
- The goal is to ensure responsible and sustainable deep-sea mining, balancing economic development and environmental protection.
Why In News
The ISA member nations, recognizing the growing importance of sustainable resource extraction, collectively established a comprehensive two-year road map. This roadmap aims to pave the way for the implementation of responsible deep-sea mining regulations, with a particular focus on ensuring the environmentally conscious exploitation of valuable resources like nickel, cobalt, and copper within deep seabed regions beyond national jurisdictions.
MCQs about Regulating Deep-Sea Mining
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What is the primary purpose of the International Seabed Authority (ISA)?
A. To regulate fishing activities in international waters.
B. To promote international trade of ocean resources.
C. To establish regulations for deep-sea mining.
D. To enforce maritime security in territorial waters.
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Where is the headquarters of the International Seabed Authority located?
A. Geneva, Switzerland.
B. Kingston, Jamaica.
C. New York, USA.
D. London, United Kingdom.
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Which body within the International Seabed Authority serves as its executive authority?
A. The Assembly.
B. The Council.
C. The Secretary-General.
D. The Endowment Fund.
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What is the key objective of the ISA’s Endowment Fund for Collaborative Marine Scientific Research?
A. To fund deep-sea mining projects in developing countries.
B. To support marine conservation efforts in international waters.
C. To encourage scientists from developing countries to contribute to marine studies.
D. To promote sustainable tourism in coastal regions.
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