The deep sea spans over 65% of Earth’s surface and sustains diverse life in cold, dark, high-pressure conditions. Its ecosystems, including hydrothermal vents and cold seeps, depend on chemosynthesis rather than sunlight and recover extremely slowly if disturbed. Now, intensifying interest in valuable minerals—like those found in polymetallic nodules, sulfides, and cobalt crusts—fuels proposals for deep-sea mining. Such exploitation risks creating vast sediment plumes, harming fragile habitats, and destroying undiscovered species. Additionally, the deep sea has long served as a dumping ground for radioactive and other waste. Regulatory bodies like the International Seabed Authority face mounting pressure to manage resource needs without devastating this vulnerable, poorly understood realm.