Former US President Donald Trump has taken a bold step by signing an executive order focused on accelerating deep-sea mining both within US territorial waters and in international territories. The decision has drawn immediate concern and criticism from China, which asserts that the order contravenes international law. This recent development is part of Trump’s broader strategy to enhance access to critical minerals necessary for industries such as aerospace, green technology, and healthcare.
The executive order emphasizes the potential of the deep sea, which is believed to harbor vast amounts of polymetallic nodules. These potato-shaped rocks are rich in valuable minerals such as cobalt and rare earth elements. The document aims to position the United States as a leader in “responsible seabed mineral exploration,” while seemingly sidestepping ongoing United Nations discussions about international mining regulations.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun expressed that the US authorisation "violates international law and harms the overall interests of the international community.” China currently leads the global market in the production of essential critical metals like cobalt and lithium, which has posed challenges for the US.
A US official noted on Thursday that the administration's move to enhance its position in this aquatic resource space aims to outpace China's dominance in the sector. The order accelerates the process for issuing exploration licenses and permits for recovery, not only in domestic waters but also in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
Economically, the Trump administration projects that deep-sea mining could potentially contribute an impressive $300 billion to the US GDP over the next decade and could create around 100,000 jobs. However, the EU, UK and numerous environmental advocates call for a halt on deep-sea mining practices until adequate scientific research on the long-term effects is conducted.
Critics, including environmentalist Jeff Watters of Ocean Conservancy, voice serious concerns about the potential harmful effects of deep-sea mining on marine ecosystems. Watters cautioned that the damaging impacts of deep-sea mining extend beyond the ocean floor, affecting the entire marine environment, relying heavily on delicate ocean systems.
While it remains uncertain when deep-sea mining operations will commence, one mining company, The Metals Company (TMC), is proactively seeking permits from the US government and has ambitions to initiate mining operations by the end of the year. TMC’s CEO Gerard Barron argues against the environmental concerns raised, noting the sparse life forms in the abyssal zone, deep underwater, compared to regions with higher biodiversity.
Research conducted on the future implications of deep-sea mining by institutions such as the Natural History Museum and the National Oceanography Centre suggests that while some sediment-dwelling creatures can recover from disturbances, larger marine fauna may struggle to return due to the slow regrowth of polymetallic nodules, which require millions of years to form. The ongoing debate over the risks versus economic benefits of deep-sea mining is likely to continue amidst international tensions and environmental concerns.
