International Seabed Authority

The International Seabed Authority is the intergovernmental organization through which States Parties regulate mineral-related activities in the international seabed. Established under UNCLOS, its mandate combines resource administration for humanity's benefit with protection of the marine environment.

Jurisdiction and governing principle

Under Article 136, the Area and its resources are the common heritage of mankind. Under Article 137, rights in these resources are vested in mankind as a whole, on whose behalf the ISA acts.

• The Area means the seabed, ocean floor and subsoil beyond the limits of national jurisdiction.
• The ISA's mineral-resource jurisdiction does not extend to the water column or seabed within national jurisdiction.

Regulation of mineral activities

Under Article 153, the ISA organizes, carries out and controls mineral-related activities in the Area. It adopts rules, approves plans of work for exploration or exploitation, supervises contractors and may conduct activities through the Enterprise.

• Contractors must be sponsored by a State Party and comply with UNCLOS, ISA rules and approved contracts.
• Under Article 140, activities must benefit mankind as a whole, with equitable sharing of financial and other economic benefits.

Environmental responsibility

Under Article 145, the ISA must ensure effective protection of the marine environment from harmful effects arising from activities in the Area. Its regulatory framework therefore provides for environmental assessment, baseline data, monitoring and responses to serious environmental harm.

• Measures must prevent, reduce and control pollution and other hazards to the marine environment.
• The Legal and Technical Commission assesses environmental implications and recommends protective measures to the Council.