CNMI leader urges caution as US advances Pacific seabed mining plan

Governor David Apatang of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) is urging caution as the United States progresses with plans for potential seabed mining in the Mariana Trench. The US Marine Minerals Administration has released a proposed leasing notice for a vast area of seabed, triggering a 60-day review period by the governor.

Apatang emphasizes that the protection of Pacific waters and island communities should be the top priority. He calls for safeguards, including independent environmental studies, protections for fishing, workforce development, port infrastructure investment, contracting opportunities, and local involvement in reviewing plans and monitoring data.

Apatang stresses the need for rigorous scientific baseline studies, transparency, and explicit protections for marine resources. The proposal is part of a broader Pacific discussion about seabed mining, with governments and environmental groups weighing economic benefits against potential risks to deep-sea ecosystems. Apatang welcomes dialogue but maintains that the priority remains safeguarding the ecological integrity of the waters and the long-term well-being of the CNMI.

Angelo Villagomez, a Northern Marianas environmental advocate, argues that the economic rewards of seabed mining would primarily benefit distant corporations, while Pacific Islanders would bear the risks and costs. He warns that any damage from mining would be permanent and irreversible to fragile ecosystems. Villagomez accuses the US administration of ignoring opposition from island communities and local governments.

The Proposed Leasing Notice covers approximately 69 million acres of federal seabed surrounding the Mariana Trench, roughly the size of Nevada. The release cites about 60,000 public comments submitted before the notice was issued and notes that Governor Apatang claims no consultations took place with the people of the Northern Mariana Islands.