Defend Our Moana
Say NO to Deep Sea Mining in American Samoa
Stand with American Samoa in opposing deep sea mining plans proposed by the United States Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM). The ocean is our home – not a resource to exploit.
What’s happening in American Samoa?
American Samoa issued a moratorium on deep sea mining in 2024, banning all mineral exploration and extraction in its waters.
Now, a recent notice from the United States Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) announced a 30-day Request for Information and Interest (RFI) period for potential commercial leasing of the Pacific Outer Continental Shelf for deep seabed mining—with a looming public comment deadline of August 15, 2025. This action follows the current administration’s April 2025 “Unleashing America’s Offshore Critical Minerals” Executive Order, which called on federal agencies to expedite exploration and extraction of critical minerals from U.S. waters.
Stand with us in demanding a moratorium on deep sea mining
In addition to American Samoa, 38 States have joined the call for a moratorium, a pause or a ban on deep sea mining.
The ocean is our home – not a resource to exploit.
Submit a Public Comment
Make your voice heard
- BOEM is currently accepting public comments
- Check out our toolkit for info on how to submit your comment
- Comments are due by August 15
Record Your Ocean Story
We are the caretakers of the moana
- What is your connection to the ocean – physically, spiritually, ancestrally?
- What does it mean to you to have access to the ocean and to preserve it?
- Record a video testimonial and share it with us!
About
Defend Our Moana is a grassroots campaign mobilizing collective opposition to deep sea mining plans proposed off the coast of American Samoa. Led by Southern California Pacific Islander Community Response Team (SoCal PICRT), in collaboration with a growing coalition of Pasifika (Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander) individuals and community-based organizations across California.
Bringing deep roots in environmental justice and community organizing, partners include ‘Anamatangi Polynesian Voices, Climate Resilient Communities, and the Pacific Islander Community Partnership. Together, they are amplifying Pacific voices, advancing cultural stewardship, and mobilizing collective action to protect the ocean for future generations.
NEWS & EVENTS
-
#DefendOurMoana
Stand with American Samoa in opposing deep sea mining plans proposed by the United States Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM). The ocean is our home – not a resource to exploit. What’s happening in American Samoa? American Samoa issued a moratorium on deep sea mining in 2024, banning all mineral exploration and extraction in…
Follow Us