US territories hit out at Trump plan to explore deep sea mining in the Pacific
Summary
The US government is planning to lease large areas of the seabed near the Mariana Trench for deep sea mining to access minerals important for technology and defense. Pacific US territories, including the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and American Samoa, have expressed strong concerns about the environmental risks and want more research before any mining begins.Key Facts
- The Marine Mineral Administration (MMA) proposed leasing 28 million hectares of seabed near the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam for deep sea mining.
- The mining targets polymetallic nodules, minerals used in batteries, electronics, and defense equipment.
- The Northern Mariana Islands is a US commonwealth, and Guam is a US territory.
- Local leaders have called for strict environmental studies and protections before any mining activity.
- Guam's lieutenant governor stated strong opposition to deep sea mining due to environmental concerns.
- American Samoa is also opposing mining because it may damage its important tuna fishing industry.
- Environmental groups in American Samoa and Hawaii have sued the US government to stop the lease auctions, citing harm to marine life.
- The Trump administration supports deep sea mining as part of a strategic effort to compete with China for critical minerals.
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