Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape, alongside Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister Jelta Wong and Culture and Tourism Minister Belden Namah, has voiced strong opposition to deep sea mining in the country’s exclusive economic zones. This stance follows concerns over proposed mining activities by Deep Sea Mining Limited (DSMF) in the Bismarck Sea around New Ireland.
Marape reiterated PNG’s commitment to protecting its marine ecosystems, referencing a national moratorium on deep sea mining until detailed ecological studies are completed. He emphasized the importance of sustaining tuna breeding grounds, crucial for both local fisheries and the national economy. Wong reinforced this viewpoint, highlighting the need for a better understanding of potential impacts before proceeding with such activities, calling for caution and thorough scientific assessments.
Namah further criticized foreign companies for using PNG’s waters for experimental mining techniques, warning that potentially harmful impacts on marine life could tarnish the nation’s reputation and affect its lucrative tourism sector. He firmly stated, “We are not guinea pigs. Take your mining elsewhere.”
The DSMF company, currently looking to commercially mine seafloor deposits, has plans tied to its Solwara 1 project, initially started by Nautilus Minerals before its liquidation in 2019. The acquisition of Nautilus’s shares by DSMF has positioned them as a key player in deep-sea mineral exploration within PNG and Tonga, where they have already secured exploration rights to various systems.
This growing debate surrounding deep-sea mining is consistent with wider discussions in the Pacific region about balancing economic development with environmental protection. Similar sentiments were echoed by leaders in New Zealand and other Pacific nations, advocating for a cautious approach that considers the long-term ecological impacts of mining.
As PNG navigates its resource management strategies, the combination of governmental caution and community engagement might pave the way for sustainable resource practices. This may foster a future where economic ambitions align with ecological preservation, showcasing a commitment to environmental stewardship in the Pacific.
The focus on prioritizing marine life and ecosystem integrity offers a hopeful perspective on how resource management could emerge as a balanced and responsible approach, catering to both environmental concerns and economic development needs.
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