The European Commission has reaffirmed its position on a moratorium on deep-sea mining, according to statements from the Environmental Justice Foundation. The EJF said it welcomed the Commission’s stance. The development comes as policy discussions continue around the EU’s competitiveness agenda.
NGO coalition raises questions over deep-sea mining references
On September 17, a coalition of 16 NGOs wrote to the European Commission expressing concern about references to deep-sea mining in Mario Draghi’s report on the Future of European Competitiveness. The report suggested the EU should “carefully explore the potential of environmentally sustainable deep-sea mining,” citing an 11-year-old study. The coalition pointed to research indicating that deep-sea mining is not necessary to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.
The letter prompted a response from the European Commission. The Commission reiterated its commitment to advocating for a prohibition on deep-sea mining. It also referenced a broad consensus among scientists and nations that current understanding of the deep-sea environment and mining impacts is insufficient for safe decision-making.
Critical Raw Materials Act excludes deep-sea projects from strategic status
In its reply, the European Commission noted that under the recently adopted Critical Raw Materials Act, deep-sea mining projects are not recognized as Strategic Projects. This was presented as part of the Commission’s broader position on how such activities are treated within EU policy frameworks.
The EJF also highlighted statements attributed to Steve Trent, CEO and founder of the organization. Trent said the Commission’s position on deep-sea mining has been clear and that the recent confirmation strengthens that stance. He added that there is evidence, according to EJF, that exploiting the ocean is not needed for batteries.
Growing international support for precautionary pause or ban
The EJF said support for a moratorium on deep-sea mining is increasing. It cited backing from 32 countries, including 11 EU member states, advocating for a precautionary pause or an outright ban on the industry.