There have been calls for action regarding seabed mining, and Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata has issued a statement addressing the matter.
“The people are always my top priority, and I will always stand with you. We highly value our ocean and land—from the reefs to the mountaintops, it’s ours as the people of American Samoa, and it’s special to us and a gift [from] God. We don’t want harm to come to our land. As I’ve publicly stated, following the announcement by the DOI, I do not support use of current technology that scrapes or vacuums or mines by digging the ocean floor—especially near our beautiful islands. The issue of critical minerals from the ocean is new and emotional for many. Because it is new, we should make a careful decision based on all the facts, then move forward together in wisdom, at the direction of the people!
The Congresswoman said she’s inquiring with the Department of Interior about the next steps and when they will meet with the leaders of American Samoa. She also expressed concern about the impacts that mining of critical minerals could have on our people and our environment. “We have to protect our islands for our future generations. I would like DOI to clarify what their intent is, and I have a follow-up call with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.”
Photo: Metallic nodule on table cloth/CM & Tisa Faamuli
