Comment from Anonymous
Anonymous AnonymousOpposeIndividual
Summary: The commenter opposes the exploration license for American Deep Sea Minerals, arguing that deep-sea mining poses severe risks to marine ecosystems and coastal industries like fisheries and tourism. They cite scientific evidence of slow environmental recovery and highlight that numerous countries, companies, and experts are calling for a moratorium on such activities.
I'm strongly against the Exploration License Application for American Deep Sea Minerals. This proposal to exploit our oceans recklessly and unnecessarily favors short-term profit for a few while jeopardizing the health of our precious marine ecosystems.
Deep-sea mining poses a grave threat to ocean life and communities worldwide. The deep sea, one of Earth's most mysterious and delicate environments, continues to surprise us with discoveries like bioluminescent sharks and armored snails. Yet, it's extremely fragile; a test site on the Blake Plateau shows no signs of recovery even after half a century. NOAA scientists reveal mining impacts reach from the seafloor to the surface, risking damage to coastal industries such as fisheries and tourism. The Global Tuna Alliance and Sustainable Seafood Coalition have already voiced concerns over potential impacts on the $5.5 billion Pacific tuna industry.
There's a global call for caution: 41 countries, more than 65 major companies, 37 financial institutions, and over 940 marine experts advocate for a moratorium on seabed mining due to environmental risks and dubious economics. Importantly, those most affected oppose it. U.S. Pacific States and territories, including California, Washington, Oregon, Hawaii, American Samoa, and Guam, have either restricted or banned such activities, with American Samoa steadfast in its opposition.