Study Resumes on Dark Oxygen and Its Implications for Marine Science and Life Beyond Earth
The Nippon Foundation of Japan is funding a study on “dark oxygen” found in polymetallic nodules. Deep-sea miners seek these nodules for valuable metals, but concerns about environmental impacts have been raised. Prof. Sweetman’s team discovered oxygen production in the abyssal plain, challenging traditional beliefs. Further research is planned with support from the Nippon Foundation.