In a pivotal decision, Norway will abandon its plans to initiate deep-sea mining operations, the Socialist Left (SV) party announced on Sunday. The move came after negotiations over the 2025 budget between the minority center-left government and the SV party, which provides parliamentary support to the coalition.
"This is a crucial win in the fight against deep-sea mining," said Kirsti Bergstø, leader of the SV party. The decision effectively cancels the government’s planned licensing round for Arctic seabed exploration, which had been scheduled to begin next year, with exploration permits expected in early 2025.
The halted initiative underscores the growing environmental and political opposition to deep-sea mining. Greenpeace Norway hailed the decision, with head Frode Pleym calling it “the nail in the coffin for the destructive industry.”
Norway, a global leader in resource extraction due to its vast hydrocarbon reserves, had been positioning itself at the forefront of the burgeoning deep-sea mining industry. Preliminary government assessments in 2023 highlighted substantial deposits of metals and minerals, including copper and rare earth elements, in Arctic waters. These resources are critical for renewable energy technologies and the transition away from fossil fuels.
Despite the economic potential, the proposed mining activities drew strong opposition from environmental groups and scientists, who cited the risks of irreversible damage to fragile seabed ecosystems and marine biodiversity. The government’s plans had also faced international criticism, particularly given the pristine nature of the Arctic seabed.
The cessation of Norway’s deep-sea mining plans reflects a broader global debate over the ethical and environmental implications of extracting seabed resources. Environmental advocates hope the move will influence other nations considering similar projects.
