Deep Sea applies for licence at Clarion-Clipperton

Executive Summary

• Deep Sea Minerals Corp. has submitted an application to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for an exploration license for polymetallic nodules in the Clarion-Clipperton zone of the Pacific Ocean.
• The application, filed via U.S. subsidiary American Ocean Minerals Corp., includes technical, environmental, and operational data required under the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA).
• The submission outlines a phased approach involving baseline environmental data collection, proposed monitoring/mitigation measures, and planned exploration activities with associated expenditures.

Key Details

• Regulatory Action: Submission of an application to NOAA for an exploration license under the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act.
• Target Asset: Polymetallic nodules located in a defined area of the Clarion-Clipperton zone in the Pacific Ocean.
• Applicant: Deep Sea Minerals Corp., submitted through its U.S. subsidiary, American Ocean Minerals Corp.
• Application Contents:
  • Baseline environmental data.
  • Proposed monitoring and mitigation measures.
  • Description of planned exploration activities.
  • Associated expenditures for the exploration program.
• Strategic Context: The company is focusing on critical minerals relevant to defense, industrial manufacturing, clean energy infrastructure, advanced electronics, and AI-related supply chains.
• Next Steps: NOAA will review the application for completeness and compliance; the process includes opportunities for public comment and interagency consultation.
• Company Strategy: Early-stage engagement with selected governments and regulatory bodies in the Pacific Ocean region to assess pathways for future exploration initiatives.

Notable Quotes

• "This submission represents an initial step in the regulatory process under DSHMRA. We have structured the application to align with NOAA's requirements and to outline a phased approach that includes environmental data collection and ongoing evaluation. We look forward to NOAA's review and to engaging as part of that process." — James Deckelman, Chief Executive Officer