Abstract
Exploitation of the energy and mineral resources of the ocean is becoming an increasing environmental problem worldwide. Yet despite prioritization of this issue at a global level and although much research has been undertaken on the environmental consequences of offshore energy and mining activities, there is a lack of papers evaluating the need for an improved legal framework for these types of exploitation. While the exploitation of marine energy and mineral resources represents an important and complex business, rather little legislation has been published on those subjects. In particular, there is no international convention regulating the exploitation of offshore oil and gas resources. Moreover, the protection of the marine ocean necessitates new types of legal tools, such as the recognition of environmental crime and the instauration of marine protected areas. This study therefore aims at answering the following research question: What international legal framework is needed to support the sustainable exploitation of marine energy and mineral resources? The findings reveal that the lack of clear and precise international legislation leads to unsustainable exploitation of marine energy and mineral resources. Based on the study, eight recommendations are made to improve the current situation at the international level.