Norway Approves Controversial Deep-Sea Mining Proposal Despite Concerns

In a highly contentious parliamentary vote, Norway has taken a step closer to becoming the first country in the world to open up its seabed for commercial deep-sea mining. The decision, voted in by 80-20 by Norway's parliament after attracting cross-party support, comes despite warnings from scientists about the devastating impact it could have on marine life. The European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) have also expressed opposition, calling for a temporary ban on deep-sea mining due to environmental concerns.

The proposal is expected to accelerate the exploration of minerals, including precious metals, that are in high demand for green technologies. Initially applying to Norwegian waters, the decision will expose an area larger than Britain, spanning 280,000 sq km (108,000 sq miles), to potential mining by companies. These companies will be able to apply for licenses to mine sought-after minerals such as lithium, scandium, and cobalt. Additionally, an agreement on deep-sea mining in international waters may follow later this year.

Despite the parliamentary approval, the Norwegian government has faced immediate criticism for disregarding environmental scientists and its own experts. Greenpeace has labeled it "a shameful day" for Norway and accused the country of positioning itself as an ocean leader while allowing ocean destruction in Arctic waters. The organization has vowed to continue protesting against deep-sea mining.

WWF's No Deep Seabed Mining Initiative, although disappointed, drew some hope from the fact that extraction licenses would still require parliamentary approval. An energy department source revealed that while deep-sea mining had essentially been approved, no companies had received approval yet. Applications for deep-sea mining will need to be evaluated by the energy department and go back to parliament.

Although the Norwegian government confirmed that parliament voted in favor of exploration, it declined to provide further comment. Previously, the government mentioned its intention to proceed cautiously and issue licenses only after additional environmental research had been conducted.

The decision to allow deep-sea mining has stirred controversy and raised concerns from various environmental organizations. The Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) believes it will tarnish Norway's reputation as a responsible ocean state. Steve Trent, CEO and founder of EJF, stated that mining the deep sea is unnecessary and would cause environmental damage that cannot be afforded. Furthermore, recent scientific studies in Norwegian waters have indicated severe impacts on ocean wildlife if mining proceeds.

The EJF published a report on Tuesday, asserting that deep-sea mining is not necessary for the transition to clean energy. The report suggests that a combination of a circular economy, new technology, and improved recycling rates could significantly reduce mineral demand by 58% between 2022 and 2050. Trent emphasized that it is possible to upgrade economies and achieve zero carbon without compromising the deep ocean.

The International Seabed Authority is scheduled to meet later this year to finalize rules regarding deep-sea mining, with a vote expected in the following year.