US Signals Deep-Sea Mining Permits Could Arrive Within Months
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has indicated the US could issue deep-sea mining permits within months, as environmental concerns persist.
The United States is moving closer to granting permits for deep-sea mining, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said, indicating that approvals could be announced in the weeks and months ahead. Speaking at a gathering of G20 energy ministers in Houston, Burgum framed the effort as part of a broader strategy to expand supply chains for critical minerals at home and among allies.
Since returning to office, President Donald Trump has taken steps to support the emerging deep-sea mining sector, though no operational permits have yet been issued. The Interior Department, through its Marine Minerals Administration, is responsible for approving any mining in US territorial waters. The review process would begin with a lease sale granting companies exclusive access to specific seabed areas, followed by a separate assessment for an operational permit that would weigh scientific data.
Burgum pointed to polymetallic nodules — potato-shaped rocks found in parts of the Pacific Ocean and elsewhere — as a key resource. These nodules contain minerals essential for electric vehicles, weapons and electronics. "Those nodules that we just have to go out and vacuum up off the sea floor are filled with these critical minerals that we need," he said, adding that the goal is to ensure a diverse, secure and affordable supply.
The push comes amid heightened concern over US access to critical minerals, particularly those processed in China, which has restricted exports over the past 18 months. That has increased pressure on Washington to support domestic mining efforts.
Separately, the Trump administration aims to have the Commerce Department issue international permits, a move that could put it at odds with the United Nations-backed International Seabed Authority, which has spent more than 25 years trying to establish standards for seabed mining.
Companies that have formally applied for seabed mining permits include The Metals Company and privately held Impossible Metals, while several others have sought exploration permits. The prospect of seabed mining has raised alarm among environmentalists, who warn it could cause irreversible biodiversity loss.