CNMI leader urges caution as US advances Pacific seabed mining plan
Northern Marianas Governor David Apatang says protecting Pacific waters and island communities must come first.
CNMI Governor David Apatang has called for caution as the United States advances with a plan to develop the seabed around the Mariana Trench, potentially opening vast areas to mineral extraction. The US Marine Minerals Administration has issued a proposed leasing notice, which has prompted a 60-day review by the governor. Apatang's administration is seeking safeguards such as independent environmental baseline studies, protections for fishing, workforce development, and local business opportunities.
The territory emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific studies, transparency, and the involvement of Northern Marianas officials and traditional leaders in survey and monitoring plans. Environmental advocate Angelo Villagomez warns that while economic benefits may accrue to distant corporations, Pacific Islanders will bear the risks and costs.
Villagomez accuses the US administration of ignoring concerns from island communities and local governments.
Brief written by urgent.news from RNZ Pacific's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
