Guam’s Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Governor David Apatang are urging the federal government to allow more time for analysis of the potential impacts of a plan to open the high seas near the Marianas for deep-sea mining. In their joint statement, they emphasized the necessity for extensive scientific research to fully understand the implications of this mineral extraction method.
Both governors made a formal request for a 120-day extension to respond to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s solicitation for industry interest in commercial leasing options for the outer continental shelf offshore the CNMI, which was announced on November 12. The initial deadline for feedback is set for December 12, and the governors believe that this 30-day period is inadequate for a thorough and informed evaluation.
Their appeal highlights the need for comprehensive reviews and consultations with various stakeholders, including environmental protection agencies and marine research institutions, to assess the environmental, economic, cultural, and jurisdictional effects of the proposed activities. The designated area for potential leasing is approximately 35 million acres, situated west of the Mariana Trench National Monument at depths ranging from 3,700 to 25,100 feet.
Given the close proximity of the area to Guam and Rota, the governors expressed concern that any offshore mineral activity could have significant transboundary effects across the Mariana Archipelago. They stated that the territories share a connected ocean ecosystem and have deep cultural ties to these waters, stressing the importance of incorporating local perspectives into any federal decision-making.
In the discussion about the economic potential of this underwater region, the U.S. Geological Survey’s report suggests that the CNMI is rich in untapped marine mineral resources. These include cobalt-rich iron-manganese crusts, phosphorite, and various other valuable minerals. However, Leon Guerrero cautioned that limited scientific research has thus far been conducted regarding the environmental impacts of deep-sea mining.
She called for unity among the island communities to ensure that their voices are heard in the decision-making process concerning their waters. In related news, the U.S. also plans to explore marine minerals in American Samoa, where local leadership has opposed such initiatives. Former Governor Lemanu Mauga declared a moratorium on deep-sea mining, a ruling that has been upheld by his successor, Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula.
This initiative by the governors of Guam and CNMI highlights a proactive approach to safeguarding their marine surroundings while acknowledging the potential economic benefits of responsibly managed deep-sea mining. Their commitment to scientific research and community engagement sets a positive precedent for environmental stewardship in the region.
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