In a debate on deep sea mining, members were attempting to establish a connection between an earthquake off Erromango Island and the current mining exploration licensee, Bismarck.

A quick Google search reveals earthquake epicenter data for Vanuatu from 1978 to 1990, and according to SPC (Secretariat of the Pacific Community) guidelines, the current exploration permits drilling at depths of less than 10 meters. This should not be sufficient to trigger an earthquake, contrary to some claims.

I studied Geography and worked as a Geographical Information System (GIS) technician before transitioning into ICT, so I am familiar with both fields.

As part of my ongoing professional development, I attended GEOCAP training for seabed modeling, alongside the current acting and former commissioner of mines in Vanuatu. This training emphasized the application of ICT tools in modeling and managing seabed resources, an essential aspect of deep sea mining.

In the context of deep sea mining, ICT plays a crucial role in seabed modeling and monitoring. Technologies such as GIS, remote sensing, and data analytics are used to collect and analyze environmental data from the sea floor. These technologies allow scientists and policymakers to assess the potential environmental impact of mining activities, ensuring that operations are carried out safely and responsibly. Additionally, ICT applications help in visualizing the data, making it easier to understand the geography and geological features of the seabed, as well as to predict and mitigate any risks, such as seismic activity.

In this case, combining geological knowledge with ICT-based modeling tools offers a more informed perspective on the debate, helping to clarify whether mining activities can realistically trigger seismic events in the region.