Debmarine Namibia Benthic Environmental Monitoring Programme

Debmarine Namibia conduct the world’s largest offshore diamond mining operation. Understanding the impacts of mining-related disturbance to the seabed is key in meeting the company's environmental standards. Since 2013, Anchor has supported the design, implementation and delivery of a comprehensive benthic environmental monitoring programme within Debmarine Namibia’s Atlantic 1 Mining Licence Area, one of the largest and longest-running offshore mining operations globally. The programme assesses how seabed mining affects marine habitats and ecosystems, with a strong focus on benthic (seafloor) environments. Anchor’s work spans the full monitoring cycle, including survey design, offshore sampling, laboratory processing, taxonomic identification, advanced data analysis, and reporting. Monitoring covers soft sediments, rocky habitats, and associated biological communities, alongside key physical and chemical indicators such as sediment composition and organic content.

Using robust scientific approaches, the programme tracks both mining impacts and ecosystem recovery over time. It integrates traditional benthic surveys with underwater video systems, water quality monitoring, and emerging tools such as environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding to provide a comprehensive picture of ecosystem condition.

Beyond regulatory compliance, the programme has generated significant scientific value. It represents one of the most detailed long-term datasets globally on the ecological effects and recovery dynamics of offshore seabed mining and has led to the discovery and formal description of species new to science. The work also informs adaptive environmental management and supports Debmarine Namibia’s commitment to responsible mining and net positive biodiversity outcomes.