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This 1,000 tonne boat is taking an exploratory trip around the Cook Islands, in the South Pacific.

It's assessing whether it's workable to extract polymetallic nodules, which were created millennia ago.

Containing cobalt, nickel and manganese, all vital ingredients for batteries in electric cars, mobile phones and so on, these nodules are in demand.

Hans Smit, the CEO of Moana Minerals, describes the potential income from mining the strange metal balls.

But while some may view this as a modern-day gold rush, others see it as environmental madness.

Currently, 70 percent of the country's GDP comes from the tourism industry.

Visitors are tempted by the turquoise seas and rich marine life surrounding the islands.

Environmentalists like Alanna Smith feel there's potentially far more to be lost than gained.

Although four areas with polymetallic nodules have been discovered globally, those in the 'Exclusive Economic Zone' around the Cook Islands make this area stand out.

The others are positioned in international waters.

This area is therefore more immediately accessible, and the resource could undoubtedly benefit the country and its people long-term.

To mine or not to mine is a massive dilemma.

The islands are already very aware of the risks to their environment due to climate change.

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