Countries are negotiating rules to mine the deep sea. The U.S. is pushing ahead alone

"These polymetallic nodules, as they're known, take millions of years to form, slowly accumulating metals like nickel, cobalt and manganese. That's made them a target for mining companies, looking to feed the world's growing hunger for materials that go into advanced batteries and other technologies."

"On the seafloor, the nodules are vital habitat, part of a fragile ecosystem of marine species that are adapted to the dark, cold environment. With the majority of life in the deep sea still undiscovered by humans, many scientists say too little is known about damage that mining could cause."

"This is a brand new industry globally and yet, we're cutting down all these procedures for really thinking it through and deciding whether it's a good idea or not. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently sped up the environmental review process, a move that alarmed conservation groups."

Polymetallic nodules covering the deep ocean floor contain nickel, cobalt, and manganese accumulated over millions of years. Mining companies seek these materials for advanced batteries and technologies. However, the nodules form vital habitat for deep-sea species adapted to extreme conditions, with most deep-sea life still undiscovered. Scientists warn insufficient knowledge exists about mining's potential damage. International negotiations in Jamaica address governance through the UN-created International Seabed Authority for shared international waters. The U.S. has withdrawn from this process, with the Trump administration prioritizing seabed mining development to counter Chinese influence. NOAA accelerated environmental reviews, concerning conservation groups who argue inadequate consideration precedes this emerging global industry.

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