Trump’s plans to mine the deep ocean are untested and could cause environmental harm, say mining experts
A recent executive order from U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked controversy and concern among environmental experts and mining industry professionals. The executive order, titled Unleashing America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources, aims to promote deep sea mining by simplifying the permitting process and investing in technology to extract essential minerals like nickel, cobalt, and manganese from metallic nodules on the ocean floor.
Nadia Mykytczuk, the executive director of the Goodman School of Mines at Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ontario, expressed reservations about the potential environmental impact of deep sea mining. She emphasized that the unproven nature of deep sea mining technology could have detrimental effects on aquatic life. Mykytczuk highlighted the importance of considering alternative options, such as exploring traditional terrestrial deposits, before turning to deep sea mining to protect the environment.
The executive order reflects the United States’ urgent need for critical minerals, as noted by Mark Selby, the CEO of mining company Canada Nickel. Selby pointed out that the U.S. faces a scarcity of critical minerals, with Chinese companies currently dominating the global supply through mines in Indonesia and Africa. Despite concerns raised by the Chinese foreign ministry about potential violations of international law related to deep sea mining, Selby remains optimistic about the future of terrestrial mining operations.
Selby acknowledged the challenges associated with deep sea mining, including the high costs of extracting minerals from undersea nodules and the lack of established technology for commercial-scale operations. He highlighted the logistical difficulties of mining at depths of up to 4,000 meters underwater, contrasting this with the maximum depth of 2,000 meters in traditional nickel mines in Sudbury. Selby emphasized the need for further research and analysis to determine the feasibility and sustainability of deep sea mining operations.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding deep sea mining underscores the complex interplay between economic interests, technological advancements, and environmental conservation. As policymakers and industry stakeholders navigate these challenges, it is essential to prioritize responsible mining practices that safeguard the health of our oceans and marine ecosystems.
