Global deep-sea mining regulation and environmental concerns
The U.S. Department of the Interior proposed the world's first deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa on July 28, 2026, with a tentative auction scheduled for November 19, 2026. As of July 28, 2026, environmental advocates and Pacific Indigenous leaders have strongly criticized the proposal, citing irreparable harm to marine environments and cultures, while American Samoa has imposed its own moratorium and formally opposed the federal plans. The U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management previously proposed a notice for its first commercial deep-sea mining lease sale, projected for August 2026, offering over 31 million acres near American Samoa. This push for deep-sea mining by the U.S. administration, driven by an April 2025 executive order, occurs as Canada joined 32 other countries in calling for a moratorium on July 8, 2026, and Mexico explicitly rejected the U.S. plan on July 9, 2026.
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July 2026 — 7 developments
US Proposes First Deep-Sea Mining Lease Sale Amid Environmental Opposition
The Department of the Interior has proposed the world's first deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa. Environmental advocates and Pacific Indigenous leaders have strongly criticized the proposal, citing irreparable harm to marine environments and cultures. A tentative auction is scheduled for November 19, 2026.
US Announces First Deep-Sea Mining Lease Sale Near American Samoa Amid Opposition
The U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management has proposed a notice for its first commercial deep-sea mining lease sale, projected for August 2026, offering over 31 million acres near American Samoa. American Samoa has imposed its own moratorium and formally opposed the federal proposals. Separately, The Metals Company has initiated legal action against the International Seabed Authority to halt an investigation into its conduct.
US Accelerates Deep-Sea Mining Permits Amidst Environmental Warnings and International Opposition
Federal regulators are fast-tracking deep-sea mining permits, with lease sales planned as early as August 2026, and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management is being restructured as the Marine Minerals Administration. Environmental groups warn that proposed seabed mining threatens over 60% of rare mollusc species and could cause irreversible harm to deep-sea ecosystems. Mexico has explicitly rejected the U.S. deep-sea mining plan, joining a growing list of countries calling for a moratorium.
US Lawmakers Request GAO Investigation into Deep-Sea Mining Oversight
US Senators Alex Padilla and Martin Heinrich, along with Representative Jared Huffman, have urged the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate the proposed Marine Minerals Administration and its oversight of deep-sea mining efforts. They expressed concerns that consolidating agencies could weaken safety oversight. This request follows NOAA's January 2026 final rule expediting deep-sea mining permits.
Lawmakers Probe Trump Administration's Deep-Sea Mining Agency Merger Plan Amid Oversight Concerns
Lawmakers are calling for an investigation into the Trump administration's plan to merge offshore energy agencies, expressing concerns that the proposed new Marine Minerals Administration (MMA) could weaken oversight of deep-sea mining. The International Seabed Authority (ISA) has also questioned the legality of the U.S. approach to mining in international waters.
Canada Joins Global Call for Deep-Sea Mining Moratorium Amid US Push
Canada has joined 32 other countries in calling for a moratorium on deep-sea mining, adding to the international pressure for a pause on the industry. This move occurs amidst the U.S. administration's accelerated push for deep-sea resource exploration and exploitation, driven by an April 2025 executive order, despite growing environmental concerns.
US Pursues Deep-Sea Mining Amidst International Moratorium Calls
The U.S. administration is actively pursuing deep-sea mining, driven by an April 2025 executive order, with potential lease sales in U.S. waters as early as August 2026. By July 2025, 37 countries had called for a moratorium due to environmental concerns, while the International Seabed Authority has not yet approved commercial exploitation regulations.
June 2026 — 5 developments
US plans August lease sale for deep-sea mining in American Samoa
Federal regulators are preparing to auction sections of the seafloor for offshore mining, with lease sales planned for American Samoa in August 2026, the Northern Mariana Islands in November 2026, and the Alaska Region in December 2026. At least nine companies are reportedly in talks with the government for access to seabed minerals, with The Metals Company being one of the first to formally pursue a deep-sea mining permit under new regulations.
Fiji Council Calls for Legally Binding Moratorium on Deep-Sea Mining
Fiji's Council of Social Services is calling for a legally binding moratorium on deep-sea mining, citing a gap between the country's international stance and domestic laws that still permit seabed exploration.
Scientists and Indigenous Leaders Call for Global Ban on Deep-Sea Mining Amidst Norway's Preparations
Over 1,000 scientists and Indigenous leaders have called for a global ban on deep-sea mining, urging governments to reject proposals that could lead to irreversible damage to marine ecosystems. This plea comes as Norway prepares to open its waters to deep-sea mining, following similar moves by Japan and the US.
US Deep-Sea Mining: NSF halts OOI dismantling, BOEM issues RFI for Virginia minerals
The National Science Foundation (NSF) will halt plans to dismantle the Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI), a deep-sea monitoring system, and redeploy devices, reversing a previous decision. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has also issued a Request for Information and Interest (RFI) for potential offshore critical mineral development off the coast of Virginia, with comments accepted until July 23.
US Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to hold first deep-sea mining lease sale in August
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) plans to hold its first lease sale for deep-sea mining rights as early as August. This initiative aims to secure critical mineral supply chains and counter China's dominance in the sector, but faces opposition from environmental groups and scientists.
May 2026 — 3 developments
NOAA Expedites Deep-Sea Mining Permits; American Samoa & Guam Impose Moratoriums
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has modified its processes to allow companies to apply for deep-sea exploration licenses and commercial operations simultaneously. Concurrently, American Samoa and Guam have enacted their own moratoriums or bans on deep-sea mining within their local waters, contrasting with the Trump administration's accelerated push for the industry.
ISA Warns of Litigation Over Unregulated Deep-Sea Mining Amidst US Push
The head of the International Seabed Authority has warned that companies pursuing deep-sea mining before regulations are established could face litigation. China and the European Union have also questioned the legality of the U.S. executive order promoting deep-sea mining, viewing it as a circumvention of international agreements.
Scientists urge pause on deep-sea mining amid US acceleration efforts
Over 900 scientists and experts have called for a precautionary pause on deep-sea mining due to insufficient data on potential harm to marine environments. This call comes as the Trump administration seeks to accelerate the industry.
April 2026 — 6 developments
Trump Administration Schedules Deep-Sea Mining Lease Sales for US Pacific Territories
A Department of the Interior document outlines a timeline for lease sales in American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands in August and November 2026, respectively. This follows President Trump's executive orders aimed at accelerating deep-sea mining exploration and exploitation.
Trump administration finalizes rules to expedite deep-sea mining permits, eyes Virginia and Alaska leases
The Trump administration finalized new rules on January 21, 2026, to expedite deep-sea mining permit applications in U.S. and international waters. The administration is also considering leasing areas offshore of Virginia and Alaska for mining, aiming to counter China's dominance in critical mineral supply chains.
Indigenous Communities Fear Trump Administration's Deep-Sea Mining Promotion
Indigenous communities in U.S. territories like American Samoa and Guam are expressing fears of ecological and cultural disruption due to the Trump administration's deep-sea mining promotion. These concerns add to the existing opposition from environmental groups and over 40 nations.
US Administration Signs Deep-Sea Mining Cooperation with Japan, Issues Executive Order
The U.S. administration signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Japan in April 2026 to advance deep-sea mining research and issued Executive Order 14285 in April 2025 to promote seabed mining activities. The Metals Company has also submitted applications for exploration and recovery permits under a new NOAA rule designed to expedite operations.
U.S. Lawmakers and States Introduce Bills and Laws to Ban Deep-Sea Mining
U.S. lawmakers have introduced bills like the American Seabed Protection Act and the International Seabed Protection Act to enact a moratorium on deep-sea mining. Additionally, several U.S. states, including California, Oregon, Washington, Hawaii, Guam, and American Samoa, have enacted laws against deep-sea mining in their state or territorial waters.
BOEM initiates deep-sea mining lease processes in American Samoa and Northern Mariana Islands
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has initiated processes for leasing areas for deep-sea mining in American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands. This development occurs amidst ongoing debate and criticism regarding the environmental and economic impacts of deep-sea mining.
March 2026 — 4 developments
NOAA Finalizes Deep-Sea Mining Rule, The Metals Company Receives Compliance Determination
NOAA finalized a rule consolidating deep-sea mining permitting procedures, and Japan and the United States have agreed to collaborate on seabed mining research. The Metals Company received a compliance determination from NOAA in March 2026 for its application in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone.
American Samoa Leaders Reject NOAA's $20 Million Deep-Sea Mining Survey
Local leaders in American Samoa have unanimously rejected the NOAA's $20 million deep-sea mining survey, citing concerns about potential harm to their fishing industry. This action occurs despite the Trump administration's executive order promoting deep-sea mining and NOAA's initiation of the survey in federal waters surrounding American Samoa.
NOAA initiates $20M deep-sea mineral survey in American Samoa despite opposition
NOAA has initiated a $20 million survey in federal waters surrounding American Samoa to identify deep-sea mineral deposits, despite local opposition and a moratorium. This action occurs as over 75,000 public comments were submitted, with most opposing deep-sea mining, and at least 40 countries supporting a global moratorium.
Greenpeace urges governments to uphold international law amid deep-sea mining concerns
Greenpeace International urged governments to uphold international law on March 8, 2026, citing evidence of breaches by deep-sea mining contractors and potential violations by the U.S. administration. This follows President Trump's April 24, 2025, executive order promoting deep-sea mining in U.S. and international waters, which critics argue bypasses international law and could harm fragile ecosystems.
February 2026 — 2 developments
President Trump issues executive order to accelerate deep-sea mining, bypassing international bodies
President Trump has issued an executive order titled "Unleashing America's Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources" to accelerate deep-sea mining. This order aims to bypass international regulatory bodies like the International Seabed Authority and establish the U.S. as a leader in seabed mineral exploration. The strategy involves a unilateral approach, potentially creating diplomatic tensions and diverging from international consensus.
Trump administration launches $12 billion 'Project Vault' for deep-sea mining
The Trump administration has launched a $12 billion initiative named 'Project Vault' to advance deep-sea mining for critical minerals. This initiative aims to secure mineral supply chains and reduce reliance on China by accelerating regulatory processes and fast-tracking mining operations.
January 2026 — 9 developments
BOEM Issues RFI on Deep-Sea Mining Near Alaska
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to assess corporate interest and gather public feedback on the proposal for large-scale deep-sea mining near Alaska. This marks a new procedural step in the Trump administration's plan.
Trump Administration Promotes Seabed Mining, Eyes First Alaska Operation
Trump Administration officials promoted seabed mining in U.S. waters during a forum and announced measures that could lead to the first mining operation on Alaska's Outer Continental Shelf.
The Metals Company files for deep-sea mining permit after new framework implemented
The Metals Company filed an application for a deep-sea mining permit on January 23, 2026, one day after the new consolidated permitting framework was implemented.
House Republicans debate Trump's deep-sea mining plan, laud NOAA's expedited permitting
House members debated President Trump's deep-sea mining plan, revealing stark divisions, with Republicans on the Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources lauding NOAA's expedited permitting process and citing China.
Greenpeace protests deep sea mining, criticizes Trump administration
Greenpeace International activists have protested against deep sea mining, stating that the Trump administration is openly testing the limits of international law and rejecting long-standing global norms.
ISA Questions US Executive Order on Deep-Seabed Mineral Resources
The International Seabed Authority (ISA) has expressed concerns regarding the US Executive Order on deep-seabed mineral resources, specifically questioning its applicability beyond national jurisdiction. The ISA clarified that while the US has not ratified UNCLOS, it recognizes it as customary international law.
Republican Representatives Oppose Trump Administration's Deep-Sea Mining Push
Republican representatives from island communities have expressed opposition to the Trump administration's deep-sea mining push during an oversight hearing. They argued against burdening indigenous communities despite acknowledging the need for critical minerals.
The Metals Company seeks Washington's approval for deep-sea mining under new NOAA process
The Metals Company (TMC) has become the first deep-sea miner to seek Washington's approval to mine the international seabed under the newly streamlined permitting process introduced by NOAA.
NOAA to Publish Deep-Sea Mining Regulation in Federal Register
NOAA's Office for Coastal Management is set to publish a 113-page regulation in the Federal Register, detailing the finalized route for deep-sea mining beyond US waters. This publication marks a concrete step in the Trump administration's plan to expedite permits for deep-sea mining.
December 2025 — 1 developments
NOAA announces public review for deep seabed mining exploration license applications
NOAA formally announced the receipt and commencement of public review for exploration license applications for deep seabed mining.
November 2025 — 1 developments
President Trump expands deep-sea mining ambitions to Mariana Trench, near American Samoa
President Trump signed an executive order in April 2025 to restart deep-sea mining, and the administration is now expanding its ambitions to include the Mariana Trench area, proposing to nearly double the seabed mining area near American Samoa.
August 2025 — 1 developments
Trump administration faces international criticism over deep-sea mining initiative
The Trump administration's initiative to fast-track deep-sea mining has faced significant international criticism, with allies aligning with China against the move at United Nations talks. Furthermore, an executive order permitting deep-sea mining in international waters contradicts the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), raising legal questions about mining conducted under U.S. license.
July 2025 — 3 developments
US Rejects ISA Authority Over Deep-Sea Mining, Expedites Permits
In July 2025, the United States asserted that the International Seabed Authority (ISA) lacked authority over deep-sea mining for the US, rejecting the "common heritage of humankind" principle. Earlier, in April 2025, President Trump signed an executive order to expedite deep-sea mining permits for US-affiliated companies in both US and international waters, bypassing the ISA's multilateral process.
ISA Session Ends Without Deep-Sea Mining Moratorium, Governments Rebuked US and The Metals Company
The 30th session of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) concluded without agreeing to a moratorium on deep-sea mining, but governments present rebuked the US and The Metals Company for their unilateral approach.
NOAA proposes changes to deep-seabed mining regulations
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) proposed changes to its regulations governing deep-seabed mining under the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA).
May 2025 — 1 developments
Nations, Regions, Philanthropists Commit $9.1 Billion to Ocean Protection at Our Ocean Conference
At the Our Ocean Conference in Busan, South Korea, nations, regions, and philanthropists committed $9.1 billion to protect and restore oceans, a move seen as a stark contrast to the US deep-sea mining initiative.
April 2025 — 2 developments
France accuses US of violating international law over mining licenses
France accused the United States of violating international law by seeking to issue mining licenses in international waters, following President Trump's order.
Deep Sea Conservation Coalition calls for moratorium on deep-sea mining
The Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC) publicly called on global governments to join a growing movement for a moratorium on deep-sea mining in response to Trump's executive order.