On April 24, 2025, President Trump signed a sweeping executive order fast-tracking seabed mining off U.S. coastlines and pushing federal agencies to accelerate exploration and commercial extraction of deep-sea minerals. 

The move bypasses international oversight and threatens fragile marine ecosystems for the sake of short-term resource gains.

This order comes despite growing global concern over the environmental risks of seabed mining, including long-term damage to biodiversity, carbon release, and irreversible harm to ocean ecosystems.

The U.S. is the only major power that refused to sign the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), a landmark treaty that has been ratified by more than 160 countries.

The treaty is hugely important as it governs international maritime conduct, protects ocean resources, and ensures sustainable management of the seas.

If the U.S. wants to be a leader in ocean policy, it must lead with cooperation and responsibility—not unilateral mining projects that defy international environmental norms.

We, the undersigned, urge President Trump and the U.S. Senate to ratify the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Halt fast-tracked seabed mining projects until international guidelines and environmental protections are in place.

The oceans are one of our planet’s most vital life-support systems. They deserve international protection—not unchecked exploitation.