Moratorium on Marine Mining is extended for another three years …

… by the Government of the Northern Territory in Australia

THE GOVERNMENT OF AUSTRALIA’S NORTHERN TERRITORY IMPOSED A THREE YEAR MORATORIUM ON MARINE MINING ON 6 MARCH 2012.

The moratorium meant that exploration permits and mining permits for bulk materials in coastal waters would not be granted for the next three years – until 5 March 2015.

During that three year period a comprehensive assessment on the potential impact of sea bed mining by the Environmental Protection Agency was started to determine the impact of exploration and mining activity associated with bulk commodity sea mining while the Government was seeking to work with the other States and Territories on developing a nationally consistent approach to seabed mining.

On 9 March 2015 the moratorium was extended for another THREE years.

The Minister for Mines and Energy, David Tollner, explained that the extension would allow for reviews that are currently being undertaken by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to be completed. He added:

“By taking a go-slow approach, we are looking after our unique Territorian lifestyle, while also protecting the marine flora and fauna.

We are waiting on reviews by the EPA on the actual or potential impacts on our marine environment.

This Government has decided the best course of action is to continue the current arrangements until all of the requested information is available for consideration.

This is not a process this Government is willing to rush. Territorians enjoy a fantastic outdoor lifestyle, with boating and fishing a key part of that”.
Swakopmund Matters (For Swakopmund Matters the environment of the Namibian coastline and its ocean matters)