Norway has hit pause on its plans to launch deep-sea mining in the Arctic Ocean, following mounting pressure from environmentalists, scientists, and political allies.
This news comes just days after WWF announced it would take the Norway government to court over deep-sea mining.
The suspension stems from an agreement between the Socialist Left Party (SV) and the minority Labour-led government, announced on Sunday, December 1.
Most Read on Euro Weekly News
Norway’s deep-sea mining plans halted until at least 2025
The Norwegian government had planned to offer exploration licences for deep-sea mining in the first half of 2025, covering 280,000 square kilometres of seabed in the Norwegian and Greenland seas. However, under the new agreement, this will no longer proceed in 2025. In return, the SV party agreed to support the government’s 2025 budget.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre described the move as a temporary postponement, stating, “Preparatory work will continue, including developing regulations and assessing environmental impacts.”
Norway, Western Europe’s largest oil and gas producer, has positioned itself as a leader in renewable energy technology, according to a report by theSun.my.
Supporters of deep-sea mining argue that minerals like cobalt, copper, zinc, and rare earth elements found on the Norwegian seabed are crucial for producing batteries, wind turbines, and electronics. The government previously emphasised reducing reliance on imports from China for critical resources.
Environmental and scientific pushback on deep-sea mining in Norway
Deep-sea mining remains highly controversial due to its potential negative impact on the environment. Critics warn of significant risks to fragile marine ecosystems, including habitat destruction, chemical leaks, and noise pollution.
The suspension has been welcomed by environmental organisations, including Greenpeace Norway. Frode Pleym, Greenpeace’s head in Norway, called the announcement “a crucial win in the fight against deep-sea mining,” adding, “It should be the nail in the coffin for the destructive industry.”
The pause in Norway’s licensing reflects growing global scrutiny over deep-sea mining. Institutions like the European Parliament and the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) have also voiced opposition.