Concerns Raised Over Environmental Impact
On the opening day of the International Seabed Authority’s ‘Sustainable Blue Growth’ forum in Suva, Fiji, Pacific civil society groups issued a warning against the potential ‘bluewashing’ of deep sea mining practices. The forum, which began on 19th May 2026, is hosted at the Paradiso Hotel.
The Pacific Regional Non-Government Organisations Alliance, comprising members such as the Pacific Conference of Churches, Fiji Council of Social Services, Greenpeace Australia Pacific, and the Pacific Network on Globalisation, expressed concerns about the forum’s ‘sustainable blue growth’ framing. These groups caution that this narrative might mislead the public about the true environmental impact of deep sea mining.
Speakers at the event include Reverend James Bhagwan, General Secretary of the Pacific Council of Churches, Vani Catanasiga, Executive Director of Fiji Council of Social Services, Rae Bainteiti, Political Coordinator at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, and Laisa Nainoka, Oceans Campaigner at the Pacific Network on Globalisation.
Event Details and Participation
The press conference, slated for 2:00pm FST on 19th May, is located at the Paradiso Hotel conference room. Attendees can take advantage of free parking in front of the hotel. Following short speeches from the speakers, a Q&A session will be held.
Light refreshments will be available, and there will be opportunities for individual interviews with the speakers. A photo opportunity with a banner display is planned outside the venue.
A significant moment has arrived as Pacific states actively evaluate the future of deep sea mining. Civil society groups emphasise the need for transparent communication and a cautious approach to mining activities that could disrupt marine ecosystems. The forum features discussions on the balance between economic growth and environmental protection, highlighting the need for sustainable practices.
The event underscores the increasing scrutiny of deep sea mining’s environmental risks. Activists are advocating for more responsible evaluation processes to ensure that marine biodiversity is protected. Greenpeace Australia Pacific’s Rae Bainteiti stated, “The ocean is vital to our way of life. We need to protect it for future generations.”
Reverend James Bhagwan added, “Our voices must be heard in this critical discussion. The Pacific community cannot afford to ignore the potential dangers of deep sea mining.” These voices resonate as stakeholders consider how to responsibly manage ocean resources.
Last updated: 19 May 2026, 3:10 pm
