White House sparks outrage after fast-tracking controversial ocean project: 'Like lighting a match in a room full of

dynamite'

The White House released a statement in late April announcing an executive order to fast-track deep-sea mining for minerals such as nickel, cobalt, and titanium. The directive aims to reduce reliance on imported resources. But scientists warn that it could open the door to irreversible damage in fragile ocean ecosystems, as Mongabay noted.

What's happening?

This new order focuses on polymetallic nodules, which are mineral-filled lumps found on the ocean floor. The White House's statement pinpoints "strengthening partnerships with allies and industry to counter China's growing influence over seabed mineral resources" as a primary driver of the order.

The executive order directs federal agencies to take numerous actions within 60 days, such as creating a process to grant exploration and mining permits and finding organizations interested in processing mined materials.

Why is deep-sea mining concerning?

Though pitched as a path to economic and energy independence from other countries, deep-sea mining could also harm some of the planet's most delicate ecosystems, warn experts. Jeff Watters, the Ocean Conservancy's vice president for external affairs, told AP News that "the harm caused by deep-sea mining isn't restricted to the ocean floor: it will impact the entire water column, top to bottom, and everyone and everything relying on it."

https://www.yahoo.com/news/white-house-sparks-outrage-fast-103059185.html