The U.S. Interior Department has approved the first-ever offshore mining lease sale, targeting deep-sea mineral extraction in American Samoa’s coastal waters. The move marks a historic shift toward commercializing seabed mining under federal jurisdiction, raising environmental and industry concerns. Critics argue the process bypasses key reviews, while supporters highlight potential economic benefits from rare earth metals and other resources. The decision sets a precedent for future offshore mining ventures in U.S. waters.
{beacon} Energy & Environment Energy & Environment The Big Story Interior will hold first offshore mining lease sale The Trump administration is officially moving ahead with a decision to lease ocean tracts off the coast of American Samoa for deep-sea mining. © Fili Sagapolutele, Associated Press file The decision, announced Monday, would represent the...
