Leticia Carvalho: Meet the Woman Fighting to Regulate Deep Sea Mining

The deep sea is one of Earth’s last frontiers—and the battle over who gets to mine it is heating up. This week on the Scientista Podcast, host Monica Medina sits down with Leticia Carvalho, Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority, to talk about her mission to regulate deep sea mining before it’s too late.

From overseeing negotiations in Jamaica to fending off pressure from billion-dollar mining interests, Carvalho is holding the line on behalf of the planet. She shares her journey from oceanographer to global regulator, the risks of unregulated exploitation, and what it’s like to be a woman leading in a male-dominated space.

This is a rare inside look at the science, diplomacy, and power struggles shaping the future of our ocean.

Thank you for listening! Learn more about Scientista here: www.scientista.world

Transcript

Leticia Carvalho leads one of the most complex and consequential global governance institutions on the planet: the International Seabed Authority (ISA), which oversees the use of mineral resources in the deep ocean beyond national borders—roughly half the planet’s surface.

She’s the first woman, the first Latin American, and the first oceanographer to lead the ISA. But perhaps just as important, she’s also the first to take the helm at a time when seabed mining is moving from theory to reality.

A Constitution for the Ocean

Leticia describes the Law of the Sea as the planet’s “ocean constitution”—a global agreement that lays out how we share and protect marine resources in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

“The seabed is a common good… it belongs to all and everybody.”

The ISA, created under this framework, is responsible for ensuring that any use of seabed minerals—particularly through deep-sea mining—happens under strict environmental safeguards and benefits humanity as a whole, not just a few.

That’s easier said than done.

Striking a Balance in Uncharted Waters

“We’re talking about mining in some of the deepest, least understood places on Earth,” Leticia explains. “Technology exists, but what’s still missing is a shared understanding of how to minimize harm.”

She and her team are working with scientists, governments, and civil society to establish thresholds around noise, light, turbidity, and toxicity—what she calls the four most concerning “stressors” from potential seabed mining.

“We apply the precautionary principle. It means acknowledging what we don’t yet know—and managing risk with that in mind.”

The U.S., Unilateralism, and the Rule of Law

One of the most controversial issues Leticia now faces? A push from the U.S. to issue unilateral seabed mining permits—even though the U.S. hasn’t ratified the Law of the Sea.

“Any company or country that tries to circumvent the collective regime will be engaging in unlawful activity.”

Despite this, Leticia remains hopeful that the U.S. will continue to support the ISA’s mission—especially given its long-standing observer role.

“I still believe in multilateralism. And I believe the U.S. can play a powerful role if it chooses to lead from the front.”

Leading Through Opposition

As if managing ocean governance weren’t enough, Leticia also navigates the intense pressures that come with regulating a multi-billion dollar industry still in its infancy.

“I don’t necessarily need to be liked. I need to be effective. Integrity is fundamental for me.”

Her advice to other women in leadership? Stay the course.

“You will be challenged. I have been heavily challenged—even bullied. But I know my purpose. I’m here to protect the seabed for future generations. And I’m not going anywhere.”

Leticia Carvalho’s leadership is a reminder that science, integrity, and perseverance still matter in global governance. In her words: “This seabed—54% of the ocean—is the common good of humanity. I carry that responsibility with pride.”