; and (E) likely negative impacts on carbon sequestration dynamics and deep-ocean carbon storage. (4) The United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, 15th Conference of Parties, Decision 15/24 encourages member States to ensure that, before deep seabed mineral exploitation is permitted, the related impacts on the marine environment and biodiversity are sufficiently researched, the risks to the marine ecosystem are sufficiently understood, and sufficient regulation and conditions are imposed to ensure that exploitation does not cause harmful effects to the marine environment and biodiversity. (5) The 2022 United Nations Environment Programme Financial Initiative report on deep seabed mining states that the financing of such activities is not consistent with Sustainable Blue Economy Finance Principles. (6) There is currently insufficient scientific information on the deep sea and related marine ecosystems to fully and accurately assess the risks and impacts of deep seabed mining activities. (b) Prohibition of certain mining activities on deep seabed and Outer Continental Shelf (1) Deep seabed Notwithstanding any provision of the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act ( 30 U.S.C. 1401 et seq. ), no license, permit, or other authorization may be issued for exploration or commercial recovery. (2) Outer Continental Shelf Notwithstanding any provision of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act ( 43 U.S.C. 1301 et seq. ), no license, permit, or other authorization may be issued for exploration, development, or production of a hardrock mineral on the Outer Continental Shelf. (3) Exception for scientific research Paragraphs (1) and (2) shall not apply to the issuance of a license, permit, or other authorization to carry out scientific research activities. (c) Assessment of environmental impacts of mining activities on deep seabed and Outer Continental Shelf (1) In general Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this section, the Secretary shall seek to enter into an agreement with the National