US EditionThe false promise of deep-sea mining
- In March 2025, the U.S. Announced plans to expedite commercial deep-sea mining in the international seabed near the Pacific, bypassing multilateral processes.
- This decision follows disputes over slow international negotiations and aims to challenge China's dominance in critical mineral supply chains.
- The Metals Company, a Canadian startup linked to failed ventures, plans to seek permits under U.S. Law, potentially undermining the International Seabed Authority's authority.
- Scientists and critics warn this approach risks severe ecological damage, weakens ocean governance, and may escalate international conflicts over shared seabed resources.
- The move could prioritize narrow economic interests over environmental protection and calls for a global moratorium to avoid irreversible harm remain strong.
18 Articles
18 Articles
The false promise of deep-sea mining
Deep-sea mining of the international seabed could begin soon, despite concerns about its ecological consequences. We join others calling for a ban on international seabed mining, but for a different reason: it is a multi-billion-dollar solution to problems that do not exist. We refute three pro-extraction arguments—about (1) mineral scarcity, (2) social benefits, and (3) economic benefits—that misrepresent the state of the mining industry and mi…
Trump’s order on deep-sea mining risks fragile ocean ecosystems and global cooperation
President Trump’s decision to fast-track deep-sea mining permits without international agreement has alarmed scientists and conservationists who warn of long-lasting environmental damage and geopolitical fallout.Richard Schiffman reports for Yale Environment 360.In short:Trump’s April executive order directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to expedite mining permits in international waters, sidestepping the United Nations-bac…
The most dangerous addiction of America. How can the United States ensure the critical conditions needed without China?
During the premier period of the Second World War, the United States became dangerous to foreign mineral and critical metals imports, even though officials warned about the vulnerability of a decade's supply chain. The Congress adopted a law that created the National Defence Stock in 1939. But when the United States entered the war a year later, the expansion and urgency of its immediate defence needs exceeded the mining and internal production …
Deep-sea Mining: It’s science fiction, until it isn’t.
This editorial originally appeared as my farewell letter when I ended my tenure at the Deep-sea Mining Observer. In light of recent news surrounding deep-sea mining, I am republishing it here for posterity. Four years ago, I took over the Deep-sea Mining Observer from my predecessor, Arlo Hemphill. Conceived by the Pew Charitable Trust in ... Read More "Deep-sea Mining: It’s science fiction, until it isn’t." »
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