NORWAY ABANDONS DEEP-SEA MINING IN THE ARCTIC UNTIL AT LEAST 2029

Norway abandons deep-sea mining in the Arctic until at least 2029.  The Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC) welcomes the decision by the Norwegian Parliament to stop all plans for deep-sea mining in Arctic waters until the current parliamentary period ends in autumn 2029. During this time, no exploration or exploitation licenses will be issued. The decision also cuts funding for government mineral mapping, which is essential to the development of the deep-sea mining industry.

Sofia Tsenikli, DSCC Global Campaign Director, said:

“This is a major win for the ocean, climate and nature. Norway’s decision to halt all deep-sea mining exploration and exploitation is another nail in the coffin for the unnecessary, reckless, and highly destructive industry. A moratorium is the best way to ensure the deep ocean, and the benefits it provides us all, are safeguarded for generations to come”

Until now, Norway has been a strong proponent of deep-sea mining, both in its national waters and in international waters at the International Seabed Authority (ISA). This decision aligns with overwhelming scientific advice and is a major blow to the nascent industry’s efforts to gain momentum.

The DSCC calls on Norway and the wider international community to join the 40 countries already taking precautionary action, and to formally support a global moratorium/precautionary pause to protect the deep ocean from irreversible harm.

Image: Pixabay