In a controversial move, President Trump has signed an executive order allowing for deep-sea mining to take place in previously protected waters. The order, announced on Wednesday, has sparked outrage among environmental activists and marine conservationists.

This decision comes after years of lobbying from mining companies eager to tap into the vast mineral resources found at the bottom of the ocean. Proponents of deep-sea mining argue that it is necessary to meet the growing demand for precious metals such as cobalt, nickel, and manganese.

However, critics warn that deep-sea mining poses a significant threat to fragile marine ecosystems and species that are yet to be fully understood. The process of mining the ocean floor involves dredging up large quantities of sediment, potentially disrupting the delicate balance of underwater habitats.

Environmental groups have expressed their concerns over the long-term impact of deep-sea mining, urging the government to reconsider its decision. With the signing of this executive order, the Trump administration has paved the way for a new frontier in resource extraction, one that could have significant consequences for the health of our oceans.