Fiji’s Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to maintaining its moratorium on deep-sea mining (DSM) until a thorough scientific assessment can be conducted. Emphasizing the importance of science-based decision-making, Rabuka pointed to Fiji’s careful evaluation of Japan’s release of treated nuclear wastewater from Fukushima as a model for the approach taken on DSM issues.
Despite mounting pressure from regional civil society organizations and indigenous leaders advocating for an outright ban on DSM, Rabuka has not yet committed to ending the mining practices completely. He stressed, “At the moment, we do not have a comprehensive and conclusive science report to give the leaders the comfort to lift the moratorium.”
Environmental advocates have ramped up their calls for Pacific governments to reject DSM entirely. Discussions at the recent Pacific Civil Society Talanoa on Deep Sea Mining revealed a united front among advocates urging leaders to prioritize environmental integrity and cultural preservation over potential economic benefits. Independent policy consultant Lagi Toribau criticized the notion of sustainable mining, declaring it non-existent both on land and at sea. He called attention to the historical failures associated with past resource extraction endeavors in the Pacific, including nuclear testing and phosphate mining, underscoring the need for cautious, informed decision-making regarding the ocean’s resources.
Opposition to DSM is also heightened due to its potential adverse effects on fisheries, a critical industry already threatened by climate change. Rifino Varea from the Pacific Islands Climate Action Network highlighted concerns about changing tuna migration patterns with increasing ocean temperatures, warning that these fish could end up overlapping with areas designated for mining activities.
As Fiji remains steadfast in its moratorium, there is growing momentum across the Pacific for a definitive ban on DSM, reflecting a broader dialogue around environmental degradation, cultural rights, and sustainable resource management. The collective action seen among local communities, environmental organizations, and leaders indicates a strong commitment to protecting vital marine ecosystems and indigenous rights.
In a hopeful perspective, Fiji’s resistance to DSM represents an opportunity to set a precedent in the Pacific region, paving the way for a future characterized by responsible and sustainable management of marine resources that prioritizes community engagement and environmental stewardship. By prioritizing ecological health along with the rights of the indigenous peoples, Fiji has the potential to exemplify a model of development that harmonizes environmental sustainability and cultural preservation for generations to come.
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