The fishing sector calls for a ban on deep-sea mining

The advisory councils on long-distance fleet (LDAC), North Western Waters (NWWAC) and pelagic species of the European Union (EU) - which bring together fleet, industry and environmental NGOs - have called for a ban on deep-sea mining until it is scientifically proven that it does not harm the marine environment.

These three councils have published an opinion against underwater mining, in which they reaffirm their opposition to this activity and support a moratorium "until there is scientific evidence" that demonstrates that it does not impact marine ecosystems or endanger the livelihoods of fishermen.

The representatives of the fishing sector and NGOs have asked the EU countries not to take "premature" steps to promote mining, due to its "irreversible" damage to marine ecosystems and fishing. They have also called for a reuse of materials and circular economy strategies.

In the opinion, the advisory councils express their concern about the report of the former president of the European Central Bank, Mario Draghi, on the competitiveness of the EU, for suggesting that "the potential of deep-sea mining should be carefully explored to ensure the provision of minerals in a green transition".

The sector representatives have stressed that there are not enough scientific reports to support this activity and that, on the contrary, there are opinions from 800 oceanographers and experts who highlight the gaps in knowledge about the impact of underwater mining.

"The risks to fishing are alarming...they could seriously affect commercial species, especially migratory species such as tropical tunas," according to the report.

In 2021, the three advisory councils already warned against underwater mining and called for the precautionary principle before developing it.