but is the world ready?
As a crucial deadline looms for a new frontier of mining in the deep Pacific Ocean, Pacific Islanders are worried the controversial practice could go ahead before proper regulations are in place.
The International Seabed Authority (ISA) will begin accepting applications for industrial-scale deep-sea mining in Pacific waters in July.
Cook Island resident Alanna Smith said any damage to ocean ecosystems would be devastating for her country, where the sea is central to life.
"I've always admired watching my aunties out on the reefs, getting seafood to bring home, so it's provided for us," she said.
Smith now works for an environmental NGO called Te Ipukarea Society, which advocates for protecting the ocean.
She said it was too early to consider deep-sea mining in the area.
Link to article: Crucial date looms for deep-sea mining in the Pacific, but is the world ready? | RNZ News
