Marine phosphate mining project gets green light amid fishing industry concerns
Namibian Marine Phosphate has received an environmental clearance certificate for its Sandpiper Project, allowing it to proceed with seabed mining. The decision faces significant backlash from the fishing industry and conservationists who fear irreversible damage to marine ecosystems.
Why it matters
This project represents a global test case for the environmental viability of deep-sea mining, which could set a precedent for resource extraction in sensitive marine habitats.
NAMIBIAN Marine Phosphate (NMP) is facing stiff opposition following the issuance of an Environmental Clearance Certificate for its controversial Sandpiper Project, bringing the proposed offshore marine phosphate mining operation closer to implementation.
The project has faced sustained opposition from Namibia’s fishing industry and environmental groups, which have raised concerns about the potential impact of seabed mining on marine ecosystems, fisheries and the wider Benguela ecosystem.
Ocean Conservation Namibia described the issuance of the environmental clearance as “bad news” for Namibia’s fishing industry and marine conservation.
The organisation warned that marine phosphate mining remains largely untested and said Namibia could become the first country in the world to permit the practice.
“Namibia would still be the only country in the world to allow marine phosphate mining with unpredictable environmental outcomes. We cannot allow Namibia to become a global guinea pig!” the organisation said.
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