Key leaders of the American Samoa Government have united in opposition to the proposal for deep-sea mining in waters near American Samoa.
A press release from the Governor’s Office says that on Friday, June 13, key government leaders convened to discuss matters of importance to the territory. While several topics were on the agenda, the administration specifically sought discussion on the 30-day comment period regarding the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s proposed commercial leasing for deep-sea mining within American Samoa’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Attending the meeting were Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula, Lieutenant Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr., Congresswoman Uifa’atali Aumua Amata, Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean, and Speaker of the House Savali Talavou Ale.
Following the discussion, leaders expressed unified opposition to the proposed commercial leasing of American Samoa’s EEZ, in line with the expressed will of the people and the need to protect American Samoa’s natural resources. Notably, the American Samoa Government’s moratorium on seabed mining, established by Executive Order 006-24, remains in full force and effect.
The administration recognizes the importance of environmental stewardship and the need to include public trust and long-term well-being into all decisions regarding potential seabed activity. All present affirmed that moving forward, any actions must reflect the interests and concerns of the people. Additional updates on this matter will be provided as discussions continue.
As of Monday, June 23, 26 individuals and groups have posted comments on the federal register at Regulations.gov about the seabed mining proposal. All of the comments express opposition, while some are calling for more scientific data before any decision is made. Among the submissions is a statement from the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa:
“As a community of faith grounded in the teachings of stewardship, justice, and reverence for God’s creation, we stand firmly in opposition to practices that threaten the health of our ocean ecosystems and the well-being of our people.
“The ocean is not only the cradle of life, but also a sacred gift from our Creator, entrusted to us for responsible care. The potential environmental and cultural impacts of deep-sea mining—including the destruction of marine habitats, the disruption of subsistence practices, and the long-term effects on biodiversity—are antithetical to the values we uphold.
“We join our political leaders and the people of American Samoa, with our Pacific brothers and sisters, faith communities, and global allies, in calling for a moratorium on deep-sea mining, especially in the area close to our home of American Samoa. We urge all decision-makers to prioritize the protection of our ocean and to invest in sustainable alternatives that honor both creation and community.
“Our commitment to creation-care is an act of faith and a call to justice. We raise our collective voice in prayerful resistance, with the hope that our future generations may inherit an ocean that still teems with life, beauty, and abundance.”
The comment period ends July 16.
