I have not done specific research on the subject but understand there is some shift potential due to climate events, though I have no idea how quickly or significantly such shifts may occur. Again, it's 2020 and we only have 20% of it mapped, and parts of it we still can't get to, so there are many variables. I am just excited to see such comparatively swift progress.

In 2017 just 6% of it was mapped. We're making progress.

The article mentions both benefits. Yes, a lot of it is being done with corporate interests in mind, but the data will also benefit conservation efforts. It's the same situation with space exploration. The ones investing in research certainly have something to gain, even if greater good is a part of it or merely collateral benefit. I am still glad it's being done. We know very little about much of our oceans because we simply don't have the capability to fully explore such depths. That we are gaining the technology and someone's investing in the research is a good thing, in my opinion.

@MissKathleen Trying to map the interior of a woman's mind. I think next time I'll design and build a bathysphere instead.

@MissKathleen Actually, I've hardly been near my computer. I've been painting and decorating, re-furbishing my bathroom, building new mosquito screens, tiling part of my garage, etc. I'm even building a bird bath and food table in the garden.
In my spare time I've been sorting through all the stuff accumulated in my garage and selling/donating a stack of it.