Anette (Adepth), Nadia (DeepOcean), and Guido (NOV) had the honour of being invited by UMC 2024 (Underwater Minerals Conference 2024) to present their specific topics related to the EMINENT developments and share insights on the Norwegian approach. The team provided an overview of our EMINENT project progress and holistic approach to the Deepsea Mineral value chain on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS) region, through the presentations.

The presentations were well received at the conference, and it was amazing to see how much progress has been achieved by the other various global stakeholders in Cook Islands, Clarion Clipperton Zone, Japan, China and other regions.

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Approximately 200 participants from all over the world shared their progress in the different Deepsea Mineral areas. The conference discussed the current state and future directions of deep-sea mining research, technology, and governance, reflecting the complex interplay between environmental sustainability and resource exploitation in the marine context, diving into scientific research in seabed mapping, microfauna, biodiversity, environmental impact assessments, sediments/plume mitigation, technical offshore developments, regulatory progress, and political/economic developments. The citizens of Cook Island were also invited to join and attend the conference.

“The UMC meeting at Cook Island put the spotlight on several of the issues important for the DSM process. Remoteness, equity, trust, discovery are some that were discussed.” - Thomas Gunnar Dahlgren, Norce

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Conversations were performed within an open platform, with respect and trust towards the outcomes, but still having room for curious questions.

"Going Deep: Getting the Science Right for Informed Decisions" - UMC 2024 Focus

Moana Minerals Ltd. welcomed us to visit their exploration vessel, “Anuanua Moana,” to showcase their massive progress in exploring, collecting relevant fauna and environmental information, and sub-surface mapping.

During this conference, local citizens also had room to address environmental concerns. Thomas Wynne initiated the open and transparent dialogue, explaining the Avaiki Nui's local heritage and the leadership dynamics between political, church, and traditional leaders. Raising the ongoing dialogue to protect the lagoons and their ocean, and keep the dialogue open and actively listening to each other to find common ground in the conversation.

It has been a unique experience for us, and we have taken many takeaways. We appreciate the hospitality we have received during our stay on Rarotonga Island.

MEITAKI MAATA!

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