We believe in recycling of minerals. However, the shift to clean energy systems requires a substantial increase in the volume of critical minerals in use – for the recycling to have the desired effect. Recycling technologies must also be further developed.
Knowing that more minerals must be deployed, we must choose where the new minerals should come from. Saying no to marine minerals, means saying yes to new land-based mines and to all the associated issues.
At Loke, we believe we can explore and subsequently harvest marine minerals employing differentiating technology, where minimum environmental impact has been the main criteria for selection of technology. We believe in combining a stepwise development plan with comprehensive base-line studies and continuous monitoring of the environment while progressing.
Act to minimize and mitigate potential impacts on the environment and recognize that deep seabed mining is an area that requires a particularly sensitive environmental approach.
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Loke is introducing a number of differentiating technologies. The geographical location, deep water and not least environmental considerations pose major challenges to how to establish and operate a marine minerals industry. We believe that the solution is partly a transfer of technology, experience and culture from the subsea oil and gas industry, and partly development of new technology to mitigate the environmental exposure. The technology base from the subsea oil and gas industry is directly transferrable regarding safe and remote operation at the bottom of the ocean. This has been successfully demonstrated for over 40 years now.
In addition, mineral exploration and extraction equipment needs to be designed with extraordinary focus on minimizing environmental impact to the subsea habitats.
Loke’s technology approach, involving all areas from exploration to extraction is based on implementing the highest ESG standard with a minimal environmental footprint. The concepts are based on the experience and excellent track-record as well as the zero-emission thinking of the subsea oil and gas industry. One example being the «Plume Free Nodule Collector» which is using mechanical fingers to lift the minerals out of the seabed to minimize the disturbance to the sediments.
Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all
Increasing substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all
Promoting safe and secure working environments for all workers
Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
Reducing waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse
Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
Reducing GHG emissions