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Nice Ocean Conference Emphasizes Pause on Deep-Sea Mining and Munitions Recovery

Germany is building a floating platform to remove wartime munitions from the North Sea, reflecting broader efforts at the Nice conference to tighten marine protections.

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Ein versenkter Munitionsrest liegt in der Kolberger Heide am Ausgang der Kieler Förde in der Ostsee. (Archivbild: 18.10.2017)
Mit Blick aufs Meer: Der französische Präsident Emmanuel Macron bei seiner Rede auf der UN-Ozeankonferenz in Nizza

Overview

  • Thirty-three countries, including Germany, have called for a precautionary pause on deep-sea mining to safeguard unknown species and critical carbon stores on the ocean floor.
  • Germany pledged a €100 million munitions-recovery fund and plans a floating platform to clear WWI and WWII ordnance from its North and Baltic Sea waters, alongside tougher rules for its existing marine protected areas.
  • A coalition of 37 states unveiled plans to curb ocean noise pollution by promoting quieter ship designs, speed limits and rerouting in sensitive marine habitats.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron said over 60 countries are set to ratify the UN High Seas Treaty before year-end, enabling the creation of protected zones beyond national jurisdictions.
  • The United States has sent only two observers instead of an official delegation after issuing an April decree authorizing deep-sea mining in US and international waters.