The Draft Regulations on Exploitation of Mineral Resources in the Area
Kathy-Ann Brown
Abstract
This paper presents an overview of the draft regulations on exploitation of mineral resources in the Area (“Draft Regulations”), highlighting key aspects addressed at the twenty-fifth anniversary international conference co-organized by the International Seabed Authority and the Center for Oceans Law and Policy of the University of Virginia School of Law. Areas covered by other presenters at the twenty-fifth anniversary international conference, including the financial aspects of the Draft Regulations, the Enterprise and dispute settlement are not addressed herein. The paper begins by recalling the reasons for adopting a phased approach to, and the progress made in, developing the Mining Code (including the development of Standards and Guidelines). The discussion highlights the changes made to the applicable policy framework in 1994 that inform the ISA Council’s deliberations on the Draft Regulations. Thereafter the paper follows the process from the submission of a completed application to approval of a Plan of Work to final close-out activities. This includes an examination of the rights and obligations accorded under an exploitation contract, and the available measures to ensure compliance, including the conduct of inspections and enforcement procedures. Special attention is paid to regulatory requirements that are designed to safeguard the marine environment.