Fears Mount Over Trump’s Deep-Sea Mining Order and Its Impact on Ocean Ecosystems

The recent executive order signed by President Trump has sparked widespread concern among environmentalists and ocean scientists, who warn that accelerating deep-sea mining could cause long-term, potentially irreversible harm to fragile marine ecosystems. The order directs federal agencies to rapidly expand exploration and commercial extraction of critical mineral resources from the deep ocean, both within and beyond U.S. jurisdiction. While supporters argue that this move strengthens national security and reduces dependence on foreign minerals, critics caution that the deep sea is one of the least understood and most vulnerable habitats on the planet.

The order mandates expedited licensing for exploration and recovery of seabed minerals, as well as increased mapping and collaboration with allies for joint scientific and commercial ventures. Proponents see this as an opportunity for the U.S. to lead in critical minerals production, but scientists emphasize the enormous uncertainties surrounding the environmental impact of mining in these remote areas. They note that the deep ocean harbors unique species and ecosystems that are slow to recover from disturbance—if they recover at all. With full-scale industrial mining now a real possibility, the pressure is mounting for robust environmental safeguards and comprehensive research before large-scale extraction begins.