The True Gems of the Pacific: French Polynesia’s Pathway to Economic Prosperity under the Pressure of Deep-Sea Mining

The Pacific stands at a defining moment, as decisions on ocean exploitation will shape marine health, climate stability, and the sovereignty of island nations for generations. This Capstone project, commissioned by the Government of French Polynesia, examined how ocean economies can drive sustainable growth under increasing pressure from deep-sea mining, highlighted by recent unilateral moves to accelerate critical mineral extraction. The project identified development pathways that expand employment and self-sufficiency, and provided an assessment of the implications and risks of deep-sea mining. 

The recommendations focused on five sectors where French Polynesia holds natural advantages: revaluing pearl farming through sustainable certification and waste recycling, claiming global leadership in surfing and diving through locally-owned brands and internationally recognized labels, expanding aquaculture for food security and premium exports, building a digital economy led by public-service digitization across outer islands, and positioning local ocean-energy industries as international champions. 

In contrast, deep-sea mining could undermine the foundations of island economies, including fisheries, tourism, and ocean-based export sectors. The project outlined five reasons it should not be pursued: speculative profitability, uncertain and marginal royalties, lower-than-expected mineral grades, irreversible environmental damage, and inadequate worker protections. The analysis identified counter-strategies, grounded in investor advocacy, market pressure, and legal action, including advancing marine protected areas and supporting Pacific efforts to build legal resilience. 

To help build broad public and political support for these pathways, the team produced a campaign video for the 2027 Pacific Games, featuring voices from across French Polynesia, including government officials, community leaders, youth and business owners.

This Capstone Workshop was awarded the Leous/Parry Award for Progressive Sustainability.