Mining the Pacific – future proofing or fool's gold?

In the Cook Islands, there are plans to mine the seabed for valuable minerals, but this has sparked a lot of debate and concern among the local population and environmental activists. The Cook Islands, a group of 15 islands in the South Pacific, is facing significant challenges due to climate change, particularly rising sea levels. The ocean, known as Moana in Māori, is both a source of livelihood through fishing and tourism and a potential threat to the islands' existence. The government, led by Prime Minister Mark Brown, is pushing for deep-sea mining to extract polymetallic nodules from the ocean floor, which are rich in metals like cobalt, nickel, and manganese. These metals are essential for modern technology, including batteries for electric cars and mobile devices. Jean Mason, a curator at the Cook Islands Library and Museum, highlights the importance of these nodules, which have been known for decades but are now seen as a potential economic boon for the islands. She recalls a time when these nodules were only thought to be useful for making knife blades, but now they are viewed as a key resource for the future. The Cook Islands government believes that mining these nodules could lead to greater prosperity for the islanders, providing them with opportunities for education and improved healthcare. However, there are significant concerns about the environmental impact of deep-sea mining. Critics argue that the ocean floor is one of the last untouched areas of the planet, and extracting resources from it could have devastating effects on marine life and ecosystems. They call for a pause on mining activities until more research is conducted to understand the potential consequences. The debate over deep-sea mining is not just about the environment; it also touches on issues of sovereignty and the rights of small island nations. Rima Brown, a young Cook Islander working for the Seabed Minerals Authority, emphasizes that while the land area of the Cook Islands is small, their exclusive economic zone is vast, covering nearly 2 million square kilometers. This area is rich in resources, and the government believes it has the right to explore and utilize these resources for the benefit of its people. However, not everyone in the Cook Islands is on board with the mining plans. Activists, including Alanah Matamaru Smith from the Te Ipukarea Society, are calling for more independent research and public awareness about the potential risks of deep-sea mining. They argue that the government is moving too quickly and that the voices of local communities are not being heard. Protests have erupted, with people gathering to chant in Māori, calling for the protection of their ocean. Prime Minister Mark Brown, who also serves as the tourism minister, is determined to position the Cook Islands as a leader in the deep-sea mining industry. He believes that the revenue generated from mining could provide significant benefits for the islands, allowing young people to pursue education without incurring debt and improving healthcare services. However, activists like June Hosking, who comes from one of the outer islands, express skepticism about the government's plans. She feels that the potential downsides of mining are not being adequately discussed and that many residents are afraid to voice their concerns. June argues that it is crucial for the community to take a stand for their future, especially in light of the environmental risks associated with deep-sea mining. The Cook Islands' seabed mining debate is a complex issue that raises questions about economic development, environmental protection, and the rights of small island nations. As the government moves forward with its plans, the voices of activists and concerned citizens will play a critical role in shaping the future of the Cook Islands and its precious marine resources.