Ocean action gains momentum as world rejects deep-sea mining push

In a direct rebuke to Donald Trump's executive order promoting deep-sea mining, governments, philanthropists, and regions have pledged $9.1 billion toward ocean conservation at the Our Ocean Conference in South Korea. This latest show of collective will adds to the $160 billion mobilised by the initiative since 2014.

Nearly half the new funding targets the blue economy, with a focus on sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, especially small businesses. South Korea’s “digital oceans” effort—backed by nearly $1 billion—marks a strategic shift to AI and satellite-driven ocean monitoring.

Yet, despite the growing urgency, nature-based marine climate solutions like kelp forests and coral reefs received only $150 million, far below what’s needed. The UN estimates a $175 billion annual gap remains in ocean financing.

As Trump pushes for expedited seabed exploitation, more than 30 nations are backing a moratorium on deep-sea mining, citing irreversible environmental risks. The global divide underscores the rising importance—and complexity—of ocean governance.

Read the full article to explore what this means for your ESG strategy and the future of sustainable ocean investment.