Dark oxygen production in the deep sea

Sweetman et al. (2024) report in an article published on 22 July 2024 in Nature Geoscience on observations of the formation of oxygen through the electrolysis of seawater on polymetallic nodules on the seabed – a process the authors call “dark oxygen production”. This publication has triggered considerable debate in the scientific community and among the public. If these findings are confirmed, it could fundamentally change our understanding of oxygen production on our planet, which until now has been attributed solely to sunlight-driven photosynthesis.

The Marine Mineral Resources Strategy Group has commented on this publication and identified issues that need to be investigated. In doing so, the group is helping to ensure that key conclusions are based on sound science.