EPA Rejects New Zealand Project to Mine Undersea Iron Ore Deposits

WELLINGTON (Scrap Monster): EPA (Environmental Protection Authority) has rejected the project to mine undersea iron ore and other deposits of the New Zealand coast due to the uncertainly in the environmental impact of the project.

The project was proposed by Trans Tasman Resources, which has sought the final approval for the mining process in waters up to 149 feet deep off the country’s west coast. But the special committee EPA has denied it. EPA explained that the main reasons were the uncertainties in the significance and scope of the possible adverse environmental effects and those on existing interests.

But, Trans Tasman project is one of the most advanced projects, which is being proposed elsewhere. Fishing companies, environmental groups, local indigenous Maori tribes also opposed the project due to the possible damage to the marine lives and environment. The company has already spend around NZ$60 million for the project for local consultation and scientific researches.

Tim Crossley, CEO of the company said that the local community would miss out hundreds of new jobs and an estimated NZ$240 million per year increase to the country’s GDP. Another New Zealand deep sea mining project for discovering phosphate rocks in water up to 400 meters deep about 450 km east of the nation, was tabled last week. The proposal will undergo a six month investigation, which includes both scientific and public submissions.