standardization of environmental data and information - International ...

5.3. Requirements of an environmental impact assessment
statement
A contractor should be required to furnish a statement containing
the details of:
a. Baseline data on various environmental parameters collected at
the experimental site as well as in the proposed mining area;
b. Results of a simulated impact experiment and details of
methods and equipment used for assessment of impact;
c. Expected environmental impact due to mining activity;
d. Criteria for the selection of experimental, test and commercial
mining sites;
e. Measures undertaken to minimize the effects of mining on the
environment; and
f. Parameters for monitoring the effects of any potential
environmental impact due to mining.
5.4. Tasks of the Authority
The International Seabed Authority will need to do the following in
anticipation of seabed mining:
a. Lay down guidelines for the environmental impact assessment
of nodule mining;
b. Prescribe standard methods for assessment of impact so as to
allow intercomparison between mining sites and operations;
c. Specify acceptable limits for environmental impact on various
parameters;
d. Regulate monitoring of impacts from commercial mining
operations.
To meet these objectives, it is necessary to form working groups to
develop detailed protocols for each parameter. Each of these working
groups will collect inputs from others working in the field and compile the
INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY 485