Executive Summary
The U.S. maintains interest in seabed mining in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ) through the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA), despite not being a party to UNCLOS or the International Seabed Authority (ISA). Recent executive orders and NOAA actions aim to expedite U.S. seabed mining activities for critical minerals, leading to potential geopolitical disagreements with UNCLOS parties and the ISA. Congress is debating legislation to either codify these efforts or impose a moratorium on deep-seabed mining.
Why It Matters
This document is crucial for defense and geopolitical analysts as it outlines the U.S. strategy to secure critical minerals through seabed mining, highlighting potential international legal conflicts and strategic competition over vital resources.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. is pursuing seabed mining in ABNJ under domestic law (DSHMRA) despite not ratifying UNCLOS, creating international legal and geopolitical tensions.
- Executive Order 14285 and subsequent NOAA actions aim to accelerate U.S. seabed mining for critical minerals, with several companies having applications under review.
- Congressional debate reflects a divide between supporting U.S. seabed mining for national security and economic interests, and concerns about international disputes or environmental impacts.
Strategic Relevance
Securing critical minerals from the seabed is strategically important for national security and economic independence, reducing reliance on foreign adversaries. However, the unilateral U.S. approach risks destabilizing international ocean governance and creating geopolitical friction with UNCLOS parties and the ISA.