Resources from the Ocean Floor

Abstract

The one resource originating in marine deposits and also of prime importance economically at present is petroleum. Energy use is basic to a flourishing economy, so that the item has traditionally received much supportive attention both from elected politicians and from other decision makers in the industry and elsewhere. However, in recent decades, it has become obvious that the use of carbon-based fossil fuels involves uninsurable risks. Manageable and insurable risks are largely confined to activities concerning obtaining the resources. The risks with regard to energy waste disposal (mainly carbon dioxide), however, are much larger, involving unwanted climate change, as well as sea-level rise and other associated serious problems.