Deep sea mining

NPR - As global interest in deep-sea mining grows, the International Seabed Authority is developing rules for countries to lease and commercially mine internationally. The U.S. has opted out of the process and is forging ahead on its own. In January, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said it would expedite permits to mine in international waters. The announcement alarmed conservation groups, who expressed concern about cuts to the environmental review process. Rebecca Loomis, staff attorney at the Natural Resources Defense Council. Says it's "exponentially more risky to cut off opportunities for analysis and public input" in this "brand-new industry."