Machines mining minerals in the deep ocean have been found to cause significant damage to life on the seabed, according to scientists. The number of animals found in the tracks of the vehicles performing tests was reduced by 37% compared to untouched areas, a study found. The researchers discovered more than 4,000 animals, 90% of which were new species, living on the seafloor in a remote area of the Pacific Ocean. Vast amounts of critical minerals needed for green technologies could be locked in the deep ocean, but deep sea mining in international waters is controversial and currently not permitted until more is known about the environmental impacts. The mining firm The Metals Company, who commissioned the research, told the BBC it is encouraging that no animals outside of the mined area were affected. Tap the link in BBCNews’s bio to read why some experts fear the life in the deep ocean could be endangered. (📷 PA/NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM/UNIVERSITY OF GOTHENBURG) #Environment #D...