Three staff from the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) were among 22 international participants who recently took part in the third knowledge transfer training workshop organised and fully funded by the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and the Government of China.

Held in Qingdao from 23–27 April under the ISA-China Joint Training and Research Centre (JTRC), the training workshop focused on the science and tools needed to protect deep-sea environments through Regional Environmental Management Plans (REMPs).

The five-day training workshop brought together delegates from 16 developing countries, including a strong Pacific presence. Sessions explored marine spatial planning techniques and associated management measures. While based on processes used in areas beyond national jurisdiction, the approach is especially relevant for small island developing states managing deep-sea exploration activities in national or international waters.

Representing SBMA were knowledge management director Dr. John Parianos, senior technical officer Rima Browne, and knowledge management officer Tanga Morris Jr. This was the first ISA-JTRC workshop for all attendees. Gander Wainiqolo also attended, representing Infrastructure Cook Islands.

“This was my first time in China, and it was a great opportunity to connect with others working on deep-sea science and to better understand the methods used to map and manage the ocean floor,” said Browne. “I came away with practical tools I can apply for our SEA-REMP here in the Cook Islands.”

Participants shared country-specific experiences and engaged in hands-on exercises on spatial data, planning frameworks, and environmental protection strategies. The group also visited the China National Deep Sea Center, where they were introduced to high-tech research equipment and current exploration projects.

For Tanga Morris Jr., the trip offered both a professional and cultural milestone. “It was eye-opening to see how other countries are approaching seabed management and to see China’s marine research facilities up close,” she said. “It made me feel proud to be part of the Cook Islands team contributing to global knowledge on seabed resources.”

John Parianos presented to the training workshop on two topics: firstly, on how geological data at different scales might be able to be integrated into REMPs; then, secondly, on the Cook Islands equivalent Strategic Environmental Assessment, publicly accessible at https://www.sbma.gov.ck/ebmf-sea.

SBMA’s participation reflects its commitment to responsible seabed minerals management and the development of national expertise in marine governance. As a small country with custodianship over a large ocean area, the Cook Islands continues to invest in capacity building and science-based policy.

The workshop helped further the Authority’s efforts to design, plan, and monitor seabed activities in line with national and international standards and leading practices – a critical part of ensuring the protection of our marine ecosystems.

• SBMA