Comment from Elkins, Abby

I am voicing strong opposition to the Exploration License Application for American Deep Sea Minerals. This attempt at speculative exploitation is reckless, unnecessary, and favors the short-term benefits of a few over the essential health of our oceans. Deep-sea mining poses irreversible threats to ocean ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. The deep sea, Earth's least understood and most fragile ecosystem, reveals new species each year, yet remains at risk. For instance, a test site on the Blake Plateau hasn't recovered after 50 years. NOAA scientists found mining impacts from the seafloor to the surface, endangering coastal industries like fisheries and tourism. The Global Tuna Alliance and Sustainable Seafood Coalition have already raised alarms for the $5.5 billion Pacific tuna industry. Globally, there's a call for caution: 41 countries, over 65 major corporations, 37 financial institutions, and more than 940 marine experts urge a moratorium on seabed mining due to its environmental risks and uncertain economics. Critically, those most impacted by seabed mining stand against it. Nearly all U.S. Pacific States and territories, including California, Washington, Oregon, Hawaii, American Samoa, and Guam, have enacted restrictions or bans. The American Samoa government stands united in opposition.