Greenpeace has launched a major new scientific mission into one of the planet’s least explored environments: the deep Arctic Ocean. The month-long “Deep Arctic Expedition” will bring together international researchers to investigate underwater mountain ranges and hydrothermal vents thousands of metres below the surface, in ecosystems so remote that scientists believe entirely new species may still be waiting to be discovered. Using remotely operated underwater vehicles, the team will livestream footage from depths of up to 3,000 metres, offering a rare glimpse into ancient deep-sea habitats that exist in total darkness. Scientists involved in the expedition describe these ecosystems as vital “living libraries” that help regulate ocean health and may even hold future medical discoveries. The expedition also highlights growing concerns about deep-sea mining in Arctic waters. Environmental groups warn that industrial extraction for minerals could irreversibly damage fragile marine ecosystems before they are fully understood. Greenpeace says the mission aims to build scientific evidence for stronger ocean protection and support calls to safeguard 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030.
Read more and watch a short film about this extraordinary expedition here.