4. TECHNICAL APPROACH: SELECTIVE POLYMETALLIC NODULE COLLECTION 4.1 Autonomous Hovering Collection Systems Underlying Mining 2.0 is the use of autonomous underwater robots that hover above the seabed rather than rolling directly on it. By maintaining a controlled distance from the seafloor, these systems reduce direct disturbance to the seafloor surface. Hovering allows the autonomous underwater robot to position itself precisely over individual nodules, remain stable under deep-water conditions, and interact with the seabed in a controlled manner. 4.2 AI-Driven Identification and Targeting Artificial intelligence and machine vision systems identify polymetallic nodules and detect visible life on the nodules themselves. Based on this information, the autonomous underwater robot selectively targets individual nodules rather than removing material continuously across an area. Robotic arms pick up nodules individually. The system deliberately leaves nodules untouched, helping preserve seafloor diversity and reduce overall disturbance. 4.3 Elimination of Riser-Pump Systems Conventional deep sea mining concepts rely on riser-pump pipelines to transport collected material to surface vessels. These systems introduce additional disturbance by discharging material into the water column and contributing to plume formation. In Mining 2.0, the same autonomous underwater robot collects nodules from the seafloor. It transports them to the surface vessel, eliminating the need for riser-pump systems and avoiding the construction of permanent vertical transport infrastructure. 5. ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE AND MITIGATION 5.1 Sediment Disturbance Control Environmental performance was a central consideration in the design of the selective collection system. Preliminary hydrodynamic modeling conducted by an independent environmental engineering firm as part of this work indicates that sediment disturbance associated with selective collection remains largely localized. Modeling results show that suspended sediment remains near the seafloor, with most material settling within or near the collection area. This outcome reflects specific design features, including hovering operation, individual nodule pickup using robotic arms, and the absence of riser-pump systems. 5.2 Considerations for Visible Life and Habitat Selective collection systems by design avoid nodules with visible life and leave a portion of nodules undisturbed. By targeting individual nodules rather than continuously removing
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM0Mzk2