Environmental campaigners, led by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), have filed a lawsuit in an Oslo court challenging Norway’s plan to open a vast ocean area for seabed mineral exploration. The groups argue that the government-commissioned study on the environmental impact of the mining activities does not meet the minimum requirements set by Norway’s Seabed Minerals Act, and therefore does not provide a legal basis for the area opening.
In January, Norway’s parliament approved the proposal to open an area larger than Britain for seabed mineral exploration, citing the government-commissioned study that concluded the impact would be minimal. However, the WWF and its lawyer believe this study is insufficient and does not adequately assess the potential consequences of the mining activities.
Critics of deep-sea mining argue that industrial activity in the depths of 1,500-3,000 meters (5,000-10,000 feet), where seabed mineral deposits are located, could destroy yet-to-be-discovered species. The WWF also expressed concerns that Norway’s decision could set a bad example for other countries, prompting them to open their waters for deep-sea mining without proper impact assessments.
The Norwegian Energy Ministry has stated that the initial phase would allow for the gathering of more information about the deep-sea environment and potential impact, and that companies would need separate permits to launch full-scale mining. At least two companies have already expressed interest in specific ocean areas, with the ministry planning to announce a first licensing round this autumn.
The Norwegian government has defended its process, stating that a thorough process with broad involvement has been carried out, and that the applicable requirements have been followed. However, the WWF has the right to pursue the case in court, and a hearing could begin within the next six months.