Deep Ocean Mining: 1980 Status Report

The 1970 decade witnessed the successful demonstration of two key technical developments required to exploit the deep ocean resource-manganese nodules. The questions "can the nodules be mined?" and "can the metals be removed?" have been answered in the affirmative. The critical path in present programs includes the minimum of six years required to obtain permits, etc. for siting a nodule processing plant in the U.S. Excessive regulations and permitting procedures could lead to siting plants outside of the U.S. unless these are reformed and streamlined. Technical progress has been rapid and is far advanced. Industry is poised and ready to proceed subject only to normal business planning and constraints associated with a pioneering venture.