The search for minerals is leading some corporations to begin mining the ocean floor, but scientists warn that this could devastate fragile ecosystems that will have repercussions that we still don’t understand. What is going on in the deep sea? What precautions should be taken to prevent devastating fragile ecosystems? Maria Armoudian speaks with Craig Smith and Verena Tunnicliffe.

Craig Smith is a Professor of Oceanography at the University of Hawai’i. He is an expert in biological oceanography.

Verena Tunnicliffe is a marine biologist at the University of Victoria, Canada. She is an expert in marine habitats.

Podcast:

 

This interview originally aired on the Scholars’ Circle. To access our archive of episodes and download this interview, click here.

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Disclaimer: The ideas expressed in this discussion reflect the views of the guests and not necessarily the views of The Big Q. 

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