Scientists have mapped more of the surface of Venus than of Earth’s ocean floor” says Kristen Kusek, chair of a session on the last “terra incognita”: the ocean ridges. Only 1% of these 70.000 km of submarine mountain ranges have been visited by scientists to date. The most fascinating spots are those featuring volcanic activity, such as the ‘black smokers’ – which act like windows into the interior of the Earth. These spots are among the world’s most difficult places to research: The water temperature can be hot enough to melt lead and contains a mixture of chemicals that would be toxic to life as we know it on Earth’s surface; and the pressure at the seafloor is equivalent to some 50 jumbo jets sitting atop a human being. However, a surprising number of animals and microbes thrive in this environment. Their enzymes could be useful in biotechnological innovations, maybe enhancing environment clean-up efforts. Mining companies are interested in the minerals that accumulate around the vents: copper, zinc, lead and silver sulfides together with gold.

Turning a spotlight onto this hidden world is the fact that deep sea science is now intersecting with policy: A code of conduct has been set up for responsible research practices, and some ridge systems have been designated as Marine Protected Areas, analogous to nature reserves on land.

This session brings together all stakeholders to discuss the science, policy and management of these fascinating and mysterious environments.