2020 Volume 73 Pages 64-73
Environmental impact assessment (EIA) is an indispensable process for mining activity. The discussion on legal framework of EIA for deep-sea mining is continued in domestic and international committees. The international standards of technical protocol for commercial-based deep-sea EIA are under development stage. It is required how to conduct the deep-sea survey and monitoring with economic efficiency of process, and how to keep the data quality. The project of the SIP next-generation technology for ocean resource exploration (hereinafter referred to as “the SIP project”) aimed at the development of a practical method incorporating advanced research technologies and knowledges, and the establishment of a strategically evaluating procedure with economic efficiency. The rapid inspection method based on an image analysis for benthic meiofauna has been established as application of imaging flowcytometer. The integrated analysis of meiofauna community is studied by using combined information of morphological data from flowcytometer and genetic data from metagenomics. As for the long-term observation on seafloor, we established practical method of long-term observation using portable/standalone observation platform “Edokko Mark 1”, which is a commercial product of the domestic manufacturer, designed as a long-term monitoring device on the deep seabed. We conducted a sea-floor mapping using AUV “Hobarin”, which can cruise keeping on height of several meters, to collect the detailed topography of seabed and the information on habitat condition. The method of turbulence observation, which may be essential data for accurate prediction of turbid water diffusion, was established. These new methods and procedures were published as several technical protocols for environmental impact assessment conducting surveys and monitoring on the stage of resource exploration. The manual of new commercial-based EIA protocol for deep-sea mining were compiled by the concept of “strategic environmental assessment” recommended by the Ministry of the Environment. These manuals anticipate user’s needs for strategic approach to make a sustainable development with environmental considerations regarding seabed mining. In the future, the knowledges and experiences of the SIP project will enhance the business progression of private companies, and lead the international marine industry.
