What deep sea mining could mean for Jamaica’s fisherfolk

Jamaica's fisherfolk depend on healthy reefs and fish stocks for their livelihoods, and deep-sea mining — not currently planned in Jamaican waters — has become a subject of concern anyway, because the International Seabed Authority is still writing the rules for mining elsewhere in international waters.

Researchers and advocates quoted in the piece say sediment plumes, underwater noise and habitat destruction from mining could ripple through food webs and hit fishing communities, though they are candid that the data simply does not exist yet to say how badly. A UN policy brief warns the practice risks undermining food security and cultural rights in coastal communities.

The consensus among the marine scientists and lawyers interviewed is that Jamaica should build up ocean governance and public participation now, before any decisions get made without fishers at the table.

The full dispatch is available from the source below.