Workshop on the Establishment of a Geological Model of ...

• The programme of work and any change which needs to be made in the course of implementing
this programme; if it is to be adjusted or if it has been adjusted; this is to be reported to the
Authority.
• Environmental studies, environmental monitoring, and all related programmes including,
observations, measurements, evaluations and analysis of environmental parameters.
• All expenditure incurred during that calendar year for exploration should be provided.
Data to be submitted after the termination or expiration of a contract
In relation to data requirements following termination of a contract, Mr Diène said that the contractor,
if it had not already done so, is required to submit the following data and information to the Secretary
General of the International Seabed Authority:
• A copy of the geological, environmental, geochemical and geophysical data acquired by the
contractor. Mr. Diène suggested that this requirement should be omitted, because upon
termination of the contract, the contractor’s work is complete.
• Estimation of mineable areas ‐ when such areas have been identified ‐ which shall include details
of the grade and quantity of the proven, probable, and possible polymetallic nodule reserves,
even the anticipated mining conditions.
• Copies of geological, technical, financial, and economic reports necessary for the effective
exercise of the powers and functions of the Authority.
• A statement of the quantity of polymetallic nodules recovered as samples or for the purpose of
testing.
• Information in sufficient detail on the equipment used to carry out the exploration work,
including the results of tests conducted on proposed mining technologies, but not equipment
design data.
Quality of data to be submitted to the International Seabed Authority
Mr .Diène said that data submitted to the ISA should be of a certain quality and quantity; and should
be sufficient, representative, reliable, and compatible. Recalling the presentation of Kaiser De Souza, Marine
Geologist of the Authority, in particular the difficulties of the comparability of data from the different
contractors, Mr Deine reiterated the importance of standardization for future applicants. He pointed out the
need to minimize these types of problems. He said that the quality and quantity of data are critical for: the
characteristics of the deposit; the geometry of the deposit; the assessment of resources; and the selection of
optimum and suitable technology to mine it.
Mr. Diène pointed out that a minimum quantity of data is necessary for resource assessment in such
large areas. He noted that these data would form the basis for any extrapolation that was required. Given
the size of the areas in question, Mr. Diène said a large quantity of data are required for extrapolation or
interpolation to work.
Mr. Diène also said the data should be representative. In this regard, he pointed out that a number of
questions could be asked regarding the representativeness of a data parameter: Is the value of the parameter
distributed in such way over an area that it can be considered random? Does the portion of sample, which
has been analysed, represent the whole? Does the sample analysed represent the location from which it was
taken?
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