Oceans Unmined is an emerging non-profit initiative dedicated to safeguarding the deep ocean from the imminent threat of deep-seabed mining. Founded through a collaboration between marine scientist Gayathra Bandara and visual artist Delphine Mestdagh, Oceans Unmined bridges science, art, and youth engagement to inspire a new generation of ocean advocates.
Our mission is to protect fragile deep-sea ecosystems, amplify scientific knowledge, and empower communities especially young people with accessible, creative, and evidence-based storytelling. By merging rigorous marine science with compelling visual art, we aim to communicate the ecological value of the deep ocean, highlight the risks of industrial exploitation, and foster global support for a moratorium on deep-seabed mining.
Oceans Unmined develops science communication campaigns, public outreach programs, educational resources, and sci-art exhibitions that bring deep-sea research to the public in innovative and emotionally resonant ways. We collaborate with scientists, artists, educators, and advocacy networks worldwide to build a powerful movement grounded in creativity, compassion, and scientific integrity.
The deep ocean holds some of the planet’s most ancient, diverse, and vulnerable life forms. At Oceans Unmined, we believe that protecting this last great wilderness requires not only knowledge, but also imagination and collective action. Through our work, we strive to ensure that the deep sea remains unmined, alive, and thriving for generations to come.

Oceans Unmined

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