Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Opposition from members of the public has continued to pour in regarding deep-seabed mining on or around American Samoa’s offshore waters since the Department of the Interior moved to consider issuing or selling a mining lease to a private company.

Former Director of Education and Director of Marine and Wildlife Resources Dr. Ruth Matagi-Tofiga and Fagatogo Faipule Malaeoletalu Melesio Gurr, Chairman of the House Committee on Ports and Transportation, have expressed strong opposition to the DOI's move. 

However, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum told the media in Washington, D.C., that a proposed mineral lease sale in waters near American Samoa is both a supply chain and national security issue.

“This is an opportunity that should not be missed — but only if it is pursued responsibly, with transparency, and with the long-term interests of the people of American Samoa at its core.”

Educator and biologist Dr. Matagi-Tofiga, in a statement, emphasizes the deep-rooted connection that Samoans have with the ocean, shaped by our culture, history, and intrinsic reliance on marine resources for our survival.

“In our communities, we instill in our children the importance of protecting the ocean's biodiversity and nurturing its resources. 

“This is more than just a lesson; it is a vital aspect of our identity as guardians of the sea. The concept of seabed mining, which involves extracting valuable minerals from the ocean floor, poses a significant threat to this precious ecosystem.

“Research clearly indicates that such activities can disrupt the intricate natural processes of the ocean floor, leading to the loss of marine species and resulting in irreversible damage that could last for thousands of years.” 

She said adding to the already pressing challenges of climate change, ocean acidification, and coral bleaching, the introduction of seabed mining could exacerbate these issues, ultimately resulting in dire consequences for the millions of people who depend on the health of our oceans for their livelihoods.

Dr. Matagi-Tofiga believes the potential impact on our marine biodiversity vastly outweighs any short-term economic benefits that might be derived from mining activities; and that now, more than ever, it is crucial for the people of American Samoa to unite in opposition to seabed mining. 

“We must safeguard our oceans' health and the future of our communities by standing firm against this harmful practice. Together, let's protect the vital resources that sustain us and preserve the beauty of our marine environment for generations to come.” 

Rep. Malaeoletalu, in a statement, wants the people of American Samoa, especially Fagatogo District 8, to know that he does not support seabed mining in our ocean. He added that American Samoa should protect its ocean environment for our children and future generations. 

Malaeoletalu said that “there is still much we do not know about the long-term effects of seabed mining, and we cannot afford to take risks with something as vital as our oceans.” 

He also emphasized the importance of transparency and community engagement.

“Any decision that impacts our land or ocean should always include the voices of our people.

“That has not happened in this case, and that is another reason why I cannot support it.”

Faipule Malaeoletalu expressed heartfelt gratitude to the community members and advocates who have raised important concerns regarding deep-seabed mining.

She specifically acknowledged the contributions of former Governor Lolo M. Moliga for his leadership in this matter.

Additionally, she highlighted the significance of Executive Order 006-2024, issued by former Governor Lemanu P.S. Mauga, which implemented a comprehensive moratorium on deep-seabed mining activities.

As reported earlier by Samoa News, last month, Congresswoman Uifa’atali Aumua Amata issued a statement addressing the matter citing that the People of American Samoa is her priority. 

“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 is asking the DOI about the next steps and when they will meet with the leaders of American Samoa. “I would like DOI to clarify their intent, and I have a follow-up call with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.” 

Governor Pulaalii N. Pula also issued a statement citing that for decades, American Samoa has sought ways to diversify its economy beyond our longstanding reliance on the tuna industry.

“This initiative presents a unique opportunity to explore new economic pathways that could bring growth, innovation, and stability to our territory,“ he said, adding that the initiative also “positions American Samoa such that we could play a pivotal role in advancing U.S. national security priorities by reducing U.S. dependence on foreign adversaries, particularly China.”

Pulaalii further noted that “scientific review will be essential in guiding our decisions and ensuring that any actions taken are grounded in sound data and environmental stewardship.”

Of interest, the governor pointed out that “while mining would occur within our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), a federally controlled area outside American Samoa’s jurisdiction, I am committed to ensuring that American Samoa is not left out. 

(An EEZ is an area of the ocean, generally extending 200 nautical miles [230 miles] beyond a nation's territorial sea, within which a coastal nation has jurisdiction over both living and nonliving resources. In American Samoa’s case, it is a US Territory and therefore the US federal government has jurisdiction.)