Greenland takes a step towards banning deep-sea mining

COPENHAGEN: Greenland's parliament has unanimously voted to ban deep-sea mining activities until at least the end of 2029, as fisheries remain the backbone of the country's economy and hunting contributes significantly to the livelihoods of local communities. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Greenland declared this a "significant step in the right direction," emphasizing that the environmental consequences of deep-sea mining are still not well understood.

Residents of the autonomous territory are concerned about the potential environmental impacts of such mining. However, the unexploited minerals believed to be beneath Greenland's ground and seabed could potentially bolster the island's independence from Denmark, a goal supported by the majority of its 57,000 inhabitants. The Danish government currently provides substantial subsidies, making up about 20% of Greenland's economy.

Consequently, the island would require substantial investment to thrive independently. Under the adopted proposal, Greenland's government can extend the moratorium on deep-sea mining for two-year periods. The WWF highlighted that this decision provides Greenland with an opportunity to send a strong message, urging the protection of the ocean, nature, and the well-being of its people when confronted with new forms of marine resource exploitation.

The vote came on the same day US President Donald Trump announced plans for oil, gas, and mineral exploitation in Greenland, although he did not specifically address deep-sea mining. In 2021, Greenland suspended all new oil and gas exploration permits due to the challenging conditions and poor infrastructure present in the territory.

In September, Washington signed a security agreement with Greenland and Denmark, following Trump's threat to take the strategically important Arctic territory by force.