Jamaica Faces Potential Impact of Deep‑Sea Mining on Fisheries

Deep‑sea mining, the extraction of minerals such as cobalt, copper, manganese, and nickel from ocean floors deeper than 1,000 metres, could threaten Jamaica’s coastal communities. The International Seabed Authority (ISA) is debating when and how mining should proceed, and Jamaica, which hosts ISA headquarters, is closely watching the outcome. Experts warn that mining could generate sediment plumes, destroy habitats, and produce underwater noise and light pollution, all of which could alter fish migration, spawning, and food webs. Such changes would reduce catches and undermine the diversification efforts of local fishers moving into pelagic fishing. The uncertainty around these impacts has prompted calls for stronger ocean governance, investment in scientific research, and meaningful public participation before any policy is adopted. NGOs are urged to translate complex science into accessible language and ensure community voices shape decision‑making.