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Treasures of the Deep

David Shukman goes on board the British research ship James Cook amid signs of a global race to mine the ocean floor. But will a deep sea gold rush cause lasting ecological damage?

In the deep ocean, scientists are making astonishing discoveries of highly unusual forms of life including blind shrimp. Strange chimneys known as hydrothermal vents belch superheated water exceptionally rich in minerals such as copper and gold. The BBC's Science Editor, David Shukman, goes on board the British research ship James Cook amid signs of a global race to mine the ocean floor. The question is whether a deep sea gold rush will cause lasting ecological damage.

30 minutes

Last on

Christmas Day 201323:30GMT

Broadcasts

  • Fri 28 Jun 201323:30GMT
  • Sat 29 Jun 201311:30GMT
  • Sat 29 Jun 201316:30GMT
  • Sun 30 Jun 201317:30GMT
  • Sun 30 Jun 201322:30GMT
  • Christmas Day 201302:30GMT
  • Christmas Day 201313:30GMT
  • Christmas Day 201323:30GMT