Life on Earth depends on the health of our ecosystems—especially our oceans. The oceans regulate the climate, absorb vast amounts of CO₂, and provide countless benefits that sustain the ecological balance that allows life on Earth as we know it to exist.
Sadly, the ocean urgently needs us.
The Clipperton–Clarion Zone is one of the areas of greatest interest for deep-sea mining, as it contains some of the largest concentrations of the minerals targeted for extraction from the seabed. What is not being taken into account is the enormous ecological value of this region. Thanks to these ecosystems, industries such as fishing, conservation, and tourism can continue to be economically viable. It is also important to mention that these are protected natural areas—not only at the national level, but internationally. Any activity in this zone is already prohibited, yet research and funding continue to be pushed forward in order to exploit these seabeds for deep-sea mining.
Marine mining involves the extraction of minerals from the ocean floor, including zinc, bromine, rubidium, chromium, uranium, strontium, manganese, phosphorus, copper, nickel, arsenic, aluminum, iron, and vanadium. These materials are used in the production of electronic equipment such as batteries, cell phones, computers, and vehicles, among others.
Exploration has been proposed in different areas of the Pacific Ocean, between Hawai‘i and Mexico. As a result, regions such as the Revillagigedo Archipelago would be affected—an area of extraordinary biodiversity, declared a Biosphere Reserve, designated as a Ramsar Site due to its international importance, and recognized as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site.
Interest in these minerals has intensified due to geopolitical tensions. However, scientists warn that the consequences and damage could be irreversible, or that ecosystems could take years—even decades—to show signs of resilience or recovery.
Environmental impact studies—and how this could directly threaten human life—have not yet been fully evaluated. The warnings of research institutions, scientists, activists, and civil society have been ignored. It is deeply concerning to move forward with projects of such magnitude without a completed, comprehensive study that addresses the concerns of the various individuals and groups who could be permanently affected.
Deep-sea mining follows a process similar to land-based mining: large machinery inserts massive pipes into the seabed, through which materials are pumped up to ships. Wastewater and other residual components are then discharged back into the ocean, spreading across hundreds of kilometers and creating enormous sediment plumes containing toxic metals. The collected material is then transported to land for processing.
Among the ecological impacts are:
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Species migration
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Habitat degradation and destruction
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The introduction of invasive species and the risk of new bacterial emergence, as well as increased water toxicity
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Species extinction
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Marine and coastal pollution
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Threats to public health in coastal communities
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Acoustic pollution
Species considered to be at high risk include seabirds, sharks, turtles, and cetaceans, among others. On the seafloor, corals, mollusks, larvae, and genetic enzymes would be directly affected, along with countless other organisms.
It is of utmost importance to put a stop to these practices. The areas where this activity would take place are far removed from public oversight and effective regulation. As we well know, regulations are often insufficient when it comes to corporations exploiting natural resources—especially in international waters.
For the sake of the ocean, Mexico’s marine territory, present and future generations, life on Earth, and marine species—help us share and sign this petition to put an end to deep-sea mining.