Norway delays deep-sea mining operations for four years

On Wednesday, Norway announced a four-year postponement of the first licences for deep-sea mining in its Arctic territories, a move environmental groups hope signals the potential end of these plans. Norway had been the first European country to prepare for commercial deep-sea mining in its waters, but after complex negotiations, the minority Labour government reached an agreement with smaller coalition partners that ensures parliamentary support for the 2026 budget in exchange for the delay.

Under the agreement, the government has committed "not to issue the first tenders for deep-sea mining during the current parliamentary term," which runs until 2029. This deal received backing from two crucial parties early Wednesday.

Greenpeaces deep-sea mining campaigner, Haldis Tjeldflaat Helle, described the decision as "a potential end for the deep-sea mining industry in Norway." She emphasized that "any government committed to sustainable ocean management cannot support deep-sea mining."

Deep-sea mining is an emerging industry that seeks to extract minerals such as nickel, cobalt, and copper from previously untouched seabeds. These materials are essential for technologies ranging from rechargeable batteries to defense equipment. Environmental organizations, including WWF and Greenpeace, oppose the practice, warning of severe risks to pristine marine ecosystems, while the European Parliament has called for a global moratorium.

The Norwegian government has argued the necessity of reducing global reliance on mineral supplies from countries like China to support the green transition. A 2023 assessment estimates Norway's seabed contains approximately 38 million tonnes of copper, 45 million tonnes of zinc, and substantial rare earth elements.

Norways parliament had initially approved deep-sea mining activities in 2024, with plans to issue exploration licences starting in 2025, citing the need to gather knowledge about the seabed. However, smaller coalition parties in parliament opposed this approach. To secure approval for the 2026 budget, the Labour government agreed to suspend mining activities, with two previously hesitant parties confirming their support early Wednesday.

The WWF welcomed the decision as "a major victory for nature," highlighting its significance for environmental protection, scientific research, and public advocacy.

Industry representatives expressed disappointment. Egil Tjaland, secretary general of the Norwegian Forum for Marine Minerals, warned that companies seeking deep-sea minerals may need to pursue international opportunities until political conditions in Norway stabilize. Anette Broch Mathisen Tvedt, CEO of Adepth Minerals, criticized the influence of smaller parties on strategic national industries.

International deep-sea mining projects continue elsewhere. In 2022, the Cook Islands, in collaboration with China, issued exploration licences to three companies. Meanwhile, The Metals Company in Canada plans to exploit international waters in the Pacific without the International Seabed Authoritys approval, relying on a U.S. law reinstated under former President Donald Trump.

Author: Grace Ellison