Marine Resources

During a MiningImpact expedition, the deep-sea robot ROV KIEL 6000 uses a gripper arm to remove a manganese nodule covered with a sponge for later analysis in the laboratory. Photo: ROV KIEL 6000/GEOMAR

Marine Resources

Can massive sulphides, manganese nodules and cobalt-rich crusts at the bottom of the deep sea help meet the global demand for rare metals? Can energy be extracted safely from gas hydrates? What natural substances does marine life and related microbiomes produce? Are sweet water supplies hidden beneath the seabed? The search for new resources for a growing society is closely linked to questions of safe, environmentally compatible and sustainable use. GEOMAR is therefore researching in particular the effects of the development of raw material sources on the seabed and possibilities of environmental monitoring.

Massive Sulphides
Source of Raw Material at Black Smokers

Manganese Nodules
Rich Mineral Fields on the Seabed

Cobalt-rich Crusts
Ore Treasure on the Slope of Seamounts

MiningImpact
Monitoring of the Environmental Impacts of Deep-Sea Mining

News about Marine Resources

The oxygen optode sensors were extensively tested in the laboratory and in the field, as here during a mooring deployment.

22.07.2024

Research Focus Metals in the Ocean
Metals in marine systems are both resources and nutrients, but also indicators of ocean circulation and climate history.