Technology
Can You Legally and Economically Own a Seamount or Ocean Bank and Turn It Into an Artificial Island?
Can You Legally and Economically Own a Seamount or Ocean Bank and Turn It Into an Artificial Island?
As the exploration and development of the world's oceans continue to draw interest from different sectors, the question of whether one can legally and economically own a seamount or ocean bank and transform it into an artificial island arises. This article delves into the legal and practical challenges associated with such an endeavor, assessing the feasibility and risks involved.
Legal Considerations
According to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), seamounts and ocean banks outside of a nation's 200-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) are considered part of the high seas and are thus free for all to use, albeit subject to certain limitations. This means that you do not need to 'buy' access to such locations, as they are open to anyone.
The legal status of seamounts and ocean banks in international waters has implications for ownership and control. The concept of 'buying' a seamount or ocean bank implies a need for some form of legal title or exclusive rights. However, due to their remote and unclaimed status, no formal ownership can currently be obtained. This lack of legal recourse presents a significant challenge for anyone looking to establish ownership or control over such areas.
Economic Feasibility
Even if you could legally acquire or claim ownership, the practicality of turning such areas into artificial islands faces enormous economic challenges. Constructing storm-proof structures several hundred miles offshore is estimated to cost billions of dollars. This exorbitant cost includes not only the initial construction but also the subsequent maintenance required to ensure the structure can withstand environmental stresses.
The feasibility of recouping such an investment is questionable, as the activities which would likely generate revenue, such as resource extraction, tourism, or scientific research, often face significant hurdles and opposition from other nations. For instance, deep-sea mining operations require substantial technological and financial resources, and the environmental impact of such activities can lead to resistance from environmental and international regulatory bodies.
Security and Political Challenges
In addition to the legal and economic challenges, there are significant security and political concerns associated with building a large structure in international waters. Without a powerful defense system, maintaining control over such an artificial structure would be difficult. The need for a strong defensive capability is further complicated by the fact that engaging in activities that could generate revenue also risks creating powerful enemies.
Furthermore, activities that would be necessary to generate revenue, such as deep-sea mining, might not be well-received by neighboring nations or international communities. Attempts to establish such structures could lead to conflicts with local governments, environmental organizations, and other stakeholders, creating a volatile and risky environment for any long-term operations.
Alternative Approaches
A more practical and cost-effective approach to establishing a form of 'mobile state' in the ocean might involve using supertankers. Converting several supertankers and mooring them at strategic locations could serve similar purposes to an artificial island. This approach would likely be more economically viable, as it would require less upfront investment and could potentially be repurposed for various uses, such as research platforms, resource extraction facilities, or even floating communities.
In conclusion, while the idea of owning a seamount or ocean bank and turning it into an artificial island may seem appealing, the legal, economic, and practical challenges are enormous. Alternative approaches, such as using converted supertankers, offer a more feasible and potentially lucrative solution to establishing a presence in the deep ocean.