Trump Accelerates Deep-Sea Mining, Igniting Global Debate over Environment and Law

President Trump has signed a sweeping executive order to expedite deep-sea mining for critical minerals in both U.S. and international waters, igniting controversy over potential environmental impacts and the U.S. approach to global legal norms.

The new order, labeled Unleashing America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources, directs federal agencies to fast-track the licensing of deep-sea exploration and mining operations, expand seabed mapping efforts, and forge new international partnerships to access minerals such as nickel, cobalt, copper, manganese, titanium, and rare earth elements, which are considered vital for national security and economic growth.

The administration asserts that these actions will shore up domestic supply chains and reduce dependence on foreign mineral suppliers, positioning the U.S. as a leader in critical minerals production and technological innovation. Key directives also include leveraging grants, loans, and Defense Production Act authorities to support domestic mineral processing, and studying benefit-sharing frameworks for international seabed mining activities.

However, environmental advocates and international partners have raised alarms over the lack of clear safeguards, as deep-sea mining remains unproven at scale and could threaten unique marine ecosystems. France has formally accused the U.S. of violating international law, highlighting global unease about unilateral moves to exploit shared ocean resources amid an uncertain legal and ecological landscape.