Pacific OCS Critical Minerals
The Pacific OCS contains four different mineral deposit types: polymetallic nodules, cobalt-rich crusts, sulfide deposits, and phosphorites. Areas of the Pacific OCS hold substantial potential for these critical minerals, which are essential for modern technology and energy systems. Ongoing exploration and assessment of these resources can play a vital role in securing the U.S. supply chain for critical minerals, enhancing economic stability and national security.
Latest Activity in the Pacific OCS
On May 20, 2025, the Department of the Interior announced it is initiating the process to evaluate a potential mineral lease sale in the waters offshore American Samoa. In response, BOEM will begin a multi-step evaluation process grounded in science, public engagement and environmental stewardship.
The first formal step will be the publication of a request for information and Interest in the Federal Register. This notice will seek input from the Indigenous Island community, ocean users, industry stakeholders, government agencies and the public. Feedback will help inform BOEM’s assessment of geologic conditions, potential environmental and cultural impacts and the multiple uses of the area, such as navigation and fishing.
BOEM will also ensure full compliance with all applicable laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the National Historic Preservation Act.
On April 8, 2025, BOEM received an unsolicited lease sale request from U.S. corporation Impossible Metals for a mineral lease sale offshore American Samoa. The agency conducted a thorough evaluation of the request to determine whether or not to move forward with the leasing process in American Samoa.
BOEM employs a dedicated team of geoscientists, marine scientists and other technical experts to focus on critical minerals who are diligently assessing the location and quantities of these valuable minerals in the Pacific OCS. We are actively collaborating with other federal agencies, like the USGS and NOAA, and partner organizations to map and characterize seabed mineral resources in the Pacific OCS.
BOEM's Pacific regional environmental studies are also playing a crucial role in assisting future planning and decisions for critical minerals leasing and potential development.
BOEM has co-funded several studies to better understand these resources. Recent activities include:
Click on the thumbnail below to view prospectus seabed mineral regions in the Pacific through the USGS viewer.
