Since 2014 the JPI Oceans Joint Action has successfully demonstrated how integrated scientific research can be organized in two European trans-disciplinary research projects (MiningImpact I & II) and how marine research infrastructure can be utilized jointly and efficiently to tackle deep-sea research questions and close scientific knowledge gaps. With both MiningImpact projects having delivered valuable input into the development of the international Mining Code, a significant contribution was made to generate the necessary evidence base underpinning the development of the international governance framework for the exploitation of seabed resources.
After the conclusion of the last project, policy makers and interested JPI Oceans members and experts gathered in a scoping meeting on 11 October 2022 to take stock of knowledge gaps and future research priorities; Several aspects of deep-sea mining impacts were identified that still require further or more detailed investigation. Accordingly, participating funders shared interest in pursuing the potential of a successor to the MiningImpact II project. Following up, JPI Oceans members regarded a strong involvement of different societal representatives as crucial in the further prioritization of knowledge gaps. Therefore, to align scientific research with prominent and urgent societal concerns, this workshop will offer stakeholders an opportunity for active engagement and a say in the scoping of a successor activity.
The meeting will be held in a hybrid format on 2 March 2023 from 10.00 to 16.00 (CET) at the JPI Oceans secretariat (Troonstraat 4, 1000 Brussels). For more information you can contact: willem.demoor@jpi-oceans.eu