France has strongly criticised the United States over President Donald Trump’s recent executive order to fast-track deep-sea mining operations in international waters. The order, which seeks to bypass international regulatory frameworks, has raised concerns about the environmental impact of mining for mineral-rich nodules on the ocean floor.
According to France’s ambassador for the oceans, Olivier Poivre d’Arvor, the US action violates the principle of non-appropriation of the high seas, a key aspect of international law. He emphasized that no nation has the right to exploit or destroy the oceans outside of its territorial jurisdiction. “The abyss is not for sale,” he stated, urging for adherence to global law in managing ocean resources.
Deep-sea mining holds commercial potential due to the vast mineral deposits on the ocean floor, which are essential for modern technology. However, the ecological consequences of such mining remain poorly understood, and experts warn it could cause irreversible damage to ocean ecosystems.
France has led an international coalition advocating for a global moratorium on deep-sea mining until more research is done on its environmental impacts. This coalition includes 32 countries, and in a recent report, 20 scientists urged a pause on mining activities for at least 10 to 15 years. The report highlighted potential threats such as the spread of harmful sediments and heavy metals that could disrupt marine food chains.
In response to the US decision, China, which holds numerous exploration licenses but has refrained from starting mining operations, also voiced concerns. Beijing stated that Washington’s actions not only violated international norms but also harmed global efforts to regulate and safeguard the deep-sea environment.
The US, which has not ratified the international agreements governing deep-sea mining under the UN-affiliated International Seabed Authority, has faced growing criticism for undermining global efforts to ensure responsible seabed exploration.
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