Impossible Metals, a U.S.-based deep-sea mining company, has requested a lease to explore and potentially mine critical minerals off the coast of American Samoa. This marks the first request under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act of 1953, regulated by the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM).
The company has developed an autonomous underwater robot (AUV) for selective harvesting. This AUV uses AI and a buoyancy engine to minimize disruption to the habitat and biodiversity. Impossible Metals claims this method sets a new standard for responsible resource collection with minimal environmental impact.
The exploration area is believed to contain nickel, cobalt, copper, magnesium, and rare earths. A domestic supply of these minerals is crucial for competing with global powers and developing clean energy technologies. Impossible Metals aims to work with American Samoa, the Department of the Interior, and other stakeholders to ensure high environmental and safety standards.