The race for a net-zero future is a race for critical minerals. As the global energy transition accelerates, the deep sea has emerged as a vital yet complex resource frontier. The Marine Minerals Webinar Series is a premier, open-access platform designed to be knowledge driven. Our mission is to foster an informed, neutral dialogue connecting researchers, engineers, policy experts, and industry professionals.
By integrating cutting-edge research with operational experience, we map the "knowns and unknowns", providing the fundamental knowledge required to navigate the future of deep-sea exploration and exploitation. Attendees can expect a 360-degree perspective that bridges the gap between the technicalities of deep-sea deposits and the intricacies of international law and finance.
Core topics:
- The strategic landscape: critical minerals and the energy transition
- The deep-sea frontier: mineral deposit types and ecological impacts
- The human dimension: socioeconomics, law, and ocean justice
- The business case: project economics, finance, and market risk
- The comparative footprint: terrestrial vs. marine mining
Session 1: Critical minerals and the energy transition
Focus: Present and future demand for critical minerals, supply risks, geopolitics, and the strategic role of deep-sea resources.
Date: Friday, 20 March 2026, 14:00 CET
Format: Two 20-minute expert talks followed by a 20-minute moderated (off-the-record) Q&A.
Featured speakers
"Deep-sea mining: a potential source for critical metals"
Dr. Rahul Sharma | Former Chief Scientist, CSIR-NIO India. With a 40-year career, Dr. Sharma is a leading expert on the technical, economic, and environmental dimensions of subsea mining. He has edited definitive volumes on Environmental Issues of Deep-Sea Mining and advises global agencies on sustainable frameworks.
"Critical mineral, supply chains and the deep ocean"
Dr. Pierre Josso | Deputy Director, UK Critical Minerals Intelligence Centre (BGS). Dr. Josso is a leading expert on the intersection of mineral geology and global supply chain strategy. He provides high-level analysis to government and industry on the raw materials essential for decarbonization, aerospace, and defence.
Organizing team: Verena Hagspiel-Janssen (NTNU), Sabine Gollner (NIOZ), Pierre Josso (BGS), Bramley Murton (NOCS) and Bhargav Boddupalli (SINTEF).
