Research publications

The oceans are much deeper than we think. The high seas – defined in international law as the waters beyond all national territorial waters and exclusive economic zones (EEZs) – extend to depths ranging from an average of over 4,000 metres to a maximum of over 10,000 metres. Making up almost half of Earth’s surface, the high seas contain nearly 95% of the planet’s habitat. Moreover, oceans are home to an estimated 700,000 to 1 million species. Scientists continue to discover new species and ecosystems, many of them on the deep seabed floor. Certain areas of the deep seabed are also home to significant ore deposits. These can potentially be mined and used to meet increasing demand for valuable metals used in modern and clean technologies. This HillNote outlines the opportunities and risks of deep seabed mining. It traces the current state of negotiations behind the regulations that will govern deep-sea life and activity for the foreseeable future. It also describes Canada’s role in the International Seabed Authority.

Over the past few years, global demand for minerals and metals has grown significantly, primarily owing to an energy transition that is getting under way and to technological advances. Thanks to its vast mineral reserves and industrial capacity, Canada is well positioned to take advantage of the increase in global demand and to develop the associated value chains. To achieve that goal, however, Canada must first identify stakeholders that have an impact on the extraction and processing of its mineral resources.

Potash refers to a group of minerals and chemicals that contain potassium. Potash is used in fertilizers to help plants grow, increase crop yield and enhance disease resistance. Potash production in Canada has a long history, with the first exports recorded in 1767. Today, Canada is the biggest producer of potash in the world, representing 32% of global production volume in 2023. In early 2025, Canadian potash exports became an important issue in the changing trade relationship between Canada and the United States.

In recent years, global demand for minerals and metals has grown significantly, driven primarily by an energy transition and technological advances. With vast mineral resources and a strong industrial capacity, Canada could position itself to take advantage of the increasing global demand for strategic materials and strengthen its position in global supply chains. To achieve this goal, multiple factors need to be considered, among them the security of the critical minerals supply. Securing critical minerals supply chains entails, among other measures, identifying the parties involved in extracting and processing critical minerals in this country.