President Trump aims to enhance U.S. access to critical minerals like nickel, cobalt, and manganese, which are crucial for technology and defense. This move is also intended to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign suppliers, particularly China, which controls many such minerals.

Environmental groups strongly oppose the order, warning that expedited deep-sea mining could irreparably harm marine ecosystems and impact global carbon absorption. They argue that rushing the process without proper safeguards is dangerous.

The Metals Company, a Canada-based firm, plans to apply for permits to mine nodules containing valuable minerals in international waters through a U.S. subsidiary.

The initiative is estimated to generate significant economic benefits, potentially amounting to $300 billion and creating 100,000 jobs.