Nearly 100 surfers and ocean enthusiasts gathered at Dodges Ferry on Sunday to voice opposition to deep sea mining, with more than 50 braving the freezing water for a symbolic paddle-out protest.
The demonstration was part of a coordinated global action across more than 25 countries demanding the International Seabed Authority implement a moratorium on deep sea mining proposals.
Protesters said they have serious concerns about the emerging industry, which would involve vacuuming international sea floors for composite stones containing minerals.
The event, organised by Surf Rider Australia in partnership with Deep Sea Conservation Coalition, Grassroots Action Network Tasmania and Environment Tasmania, highlighted fears about potential environmental damage.
Conservation groups warn that deep sea mining could threaten countless undiscovered marine species potentially numbering in the millions.
“There are serious concerns about environmental, social and economic impacts due to the lack of testing and the number of undiscovered species thought to be present at these depths,” a spokesperson for the organisers said.
