With over 20 million euros already invested through Ifremer, the French Research Institute for the Exploitation of the Sea, France is taking the potential of sea beds very seriously. It is among dozens of countries soon expected to submit an application to the UN to ask for permission to enlarge their EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone): in other words, their claim to marine riches.

Indeed, by enlarging their EEZ beyond the standard 200 nautical miles, these countries would be granted exclusive rights to exploit the sea bed's potential mineral and energy resources - while falling short of full sovereignty over the ocean's floor.

However, each country must first demonstrate that its continental shelf does indeed continue under the sea, with scientific evidence to back these claims up.

Obviously, this kind of scientific research is extremely expensive, which means the richest countries stand the best chance of benefitting.

France, which has the second-largest EEZ in the world, just behind the United States, certainly plans to back up its case thanks to the scientific research it has undertaken. Closing date for applications: mid-May 2009.