Deep-sea mining risks cited in EU policy debate
EU NGOs are urging a shift away from deep-sea mining, citing environmental concerns and uncertainty around the practice. The discussion also references a Draghi report that points to an 11-year-old study on seabed minerals. Recent research highlighted financial risks and uncertainties related to deep-sea mining, alongside warnings from leading European scientists.
The scientists warn that deep-sea mining could cause irreversible harm to biodiversity, disrupt marine ecosystems, and affect the ocean’s role in climate regulation. The concerns are being raised in the context of how mineral extraction may interact with ocean systems.
NGO push for battery technology and circular economy focus
Sixteen NGOs say the EU should abandon environmentally harmful practices and prioritize sustainable solutions. They argue for positioning Europe as a leader in battery technology, resource efficiency, and the circular economy. The need for circularity is also reflected in President von der Leyen’s mission letters to commissioners responsible for environmental and industrial strategy.
Steve Trent, CEO and founder of the Environmental Justice Foundation, said deep-sea mining targets minerals he described as unnecessary at an unsustainable cost. He also linked the activity to potential disruption of the oceanic carbon cycle and impacts on wildlife at an industrial scale.
Moratorium support grows across countries
Support for a moratorium on deep-sea mining is increasing, with 32 countries calling for a halt or ban. The group includes 14 European countries, including 10 EU member states. The EU Commission’s position is that deep-sea mining should be prohibited until scientific gaps are addressed and harmful effects are ruled out.
The Commission stance also calls for marine environments to be effectively protected. In parallel, NGOs have continued to argue that investment should align with circular economy approaches rather than extraction in deep-sea areas.
Seas At Risk links deep-sea mining to economic and environmental concerns
Simon Holmström, Deep-Sea Mining Policy Officer at Seas At Risk, said the Draghi report promotes a practice he described as based on outdated views of the deep-sea environment. He added that deep-sea mining presents environmental risks and can divert attention from economic opportunities for Europe.
Holmström said Europe’s future should be secured through investment in the circular economy, recycling, and innovative technologies. His remarks place emphasis on developing alternatives tied to resource efficiency rather than proceeding with deep-sea extraction.