Environmental groups in the Cook Islands call for public survey on seabed mining

Environmental groups in the Cook Islands are calling for a public survey on seabed mining to assess community support before the government proceeds. They emphasize the need for balanced education on the potential impacts of mining. The call follows a controversy over the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority's use of an NGO's logo in a presentation, which the NGO deemed misleading. The Authority has agreed to remove the logos from future materials. Critics argue that the government's consultation process lacks inclusivity and transparency. They stress the importance of considering environmental and social impacts alongside economic benefits in discussions about seabed mining.