Leticia Reis de Carvalho, soon to lead the U.N. International Seabed Authority, plans to investigate her predecessor, Michael Lodge, for alleged corruption as she takes over the agency overseeing deep-sea mining for EV battery metals.
Hannah Northey reports for E&E News.
In short:
- Carvalho, a Brazilian oceanographer, will become the first woman and scientist to lead the International Seabed Authority in January.
- She intends to investigate Michael Lodge, the outgoing Secretary-General, following allegations of mismanagement and improper relations with mining contractors.
- Carvalho aims to develop a mining code by the end of 2025 while ensuring transparency and neutrality in the agency.
Key quote:
“If I am to be neutral and professional, I need to get to know if there [was] corruption … in the relationship of the secretary-general with contractors.”
— Leticia Reis de Carvalho, incoming ISA Secretary-General
Why this matters:
Deep-sea mining could provide critical minerals for EVs, but concerns over environmental impacts and governance have escalated. Ensuring transparent management is crucial as regulations are developed.
Related: Humans may start mining the deep sea despite limited knowledge
