A recent executive order by former President Donald Trump to accelerate deep-sea mining activities has ignited a firestorm of criticism, particularly from China, which argues the move infringes upon international law. Signed to strengthen America's position in obtaining critical minerals for various industries, the order allows for exploration beyond national waters, an action China claims undermines global efforts to establish a regulatory framework.
Trump's Executive Order on Deep-Sea Mining Sparks International Controversy
Trump's Executive Order on Deep-Sea Mining Sparks International Controversy
The US president faces backlash from China and environmentalists over a new policy aimed at bolstering access to seabed minerals.
The order, issued Thursday, aims to position the United States as a leader in responsible seabed exploration, leveraging the potential billions of tonnes of polymetallic nodules—rich in vital minerals such as cobalt and rare earth elements found in the ocean depths. The announcement is part of a broader strategy to enhance U.S. mineral access amidst rising competition primarily from China, which dominates the global supply of these crucial materials.
Chinese foreign ministry representative Guo Jiakun condemned the U.S. for violating international law, emphasizing that such decisions jeopardize the interests of the global community. As the U.S. seeks to expedite exploration licenses in its waters and beyond national jurisdiction, some experts believe this could add up to $300 billion to the GDP and create around 100,000 jobs over the next decade.
However, the response from environmentalists remains critical. Many advocate for a moratorium on deep-sea mining until further scientific investigations are conducted, citing potential risks to marine habitats. Jeff Watters from Ocean Conservancy highlighted the extensive ecological impact deep-sea mining could entail, asserting that damage may extend far beyond the ocean floor.
As The Metals Company pursues permits to commence mining operations, discussions continue over the environmental ramifications of such initiatives. TMC's CEO Gerard Barron challenges the environmental concerns, proposing that certain deep-sea regions feature minimal life, contrasting with biodiverse areas like tropical rainforests. Nevertheless, research has indicated that past disturbances from mining activities led to a failure of larger marine species to repopulate affected areas due to the slow recovery of polymetallic nodules.
The deep-sea mining sector continues to spark debate over its economic potential versus its environmental costs, underscoring the need for cautious and well-regulated exploration efforts.
Chinese foreign ministry representative Guo Jiakun condemned the U.S. for violating international law, emphasizing that such decisions jeopardize the interests of the global community. As the U.S. seeks to expedite exploration licenses in its waters and beyond national jurisdiction, some experts believe this could add up to $300 billion to the GDP and create around 100,000 jobs over the next decade.
However, the response from environmentalists remains critical. Many advocate for a moratorium on deep-sea mining until further scientific investigations are conducted, citing potential risks to marine habitats. Jeff Watters from Ocean Conservancy highlighted the extensive ecological impact deep-sea mining could entail, asserting that damage may extend far beyond the ocean floor.
As The Metals Company pursues permits to commence mining operations, discussions continue over the environmental ramifications of such initiatives. TMC's CEO Gerard Barron challenges the environmental concerns, proposing that certain deep-sea regions feature minimal life, contrasting with biodiverse areas like tropical rainforests. Nevertheless, research has indicated that past disturbances from mining activities led to a failure of larger marine species to repopulate affected areas due to the slow recovery of polymetallic nodules.
The deep-sea mining sector continues to spark debate over its economic potential versus its environmental costs, underscoring the need for cautious and well-regulated exploration efforts.
