The ISA and the Deep Sea Mining Industry

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The ISA was set up in 1994 when the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea was passed. It has a dual role that many people say is sort of contradictory. On one hand, it has to regulate and oversee mining operations in the deep. But also responsible for protecting what's termed 'the common heritage of mankind'

As the International Seabed Authority gathers in Jamaica to thrash out regulations for mining the deep sea, Chris Michael of the Guardian’s Seascape team gives Ian Sample the background to this highly contested decision. Ian also hears from the marine biologist Dr Diva Amon about why some scientists are sounding the alarm. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod