Almost nine years after a catastrophic environmental incident in Brazil, victims have taken their case for compensation to a UK court. The disaster occurred when tons of toxic mining waste spilled into a major waterway, resulting in the loss of 19 lives and causing extensive damage to local communities.
The class action lawsuit, filed at the High Court in London, is seeking an estimated 36 billion pounds ($47 billion) in damages from the global mining giant BHP. If successful, this would mark the largest environmental payout in history.
The incident took place at an iron ore mine operated by Samarco, a Brazilian company in which BHP holds a 50% stake. The rupture of a tailings dam on November 5, 2015, led to the release of a massive amount of mine waste into the Doce River in southeastern Brazil.
The polluted river, considered sacred by the Krenak Indigenous people, has yet to fully recover from the devastation. The disaster not only claimed lives but also resulted in the death of 14 tons of freshwater fish and caused damage along 660 kilometers (410 miles) of the Doce River.
Following the disaster, the once-thriving village of Bento Rodrigues now lies in ruins, with only remnants of its former existence remaining. Survivors have faced immense challenges, with some turning to substance abuse and experiencing strained personal relationships.
The trial in London comes shortly after BHP and its partner Vale SA announced negotiations for a settlement with Brazilian authorities, potentially providing $31.7 billion for the affected people, communities, and environment. While BHP has expressed its belief that the UK legal action is redundant given ongoing reparation efforts in Brazil, the plaintiffs remain steadfast in seeking justice.
Survivors who have relocated to a new village continue to grapple with the trauma of the disaster. Priscila Monteiro, who lost her niece and suffered a miscarriage during the incident, expressed hope that the trial in London would bring recognition to the extent of the damage and provide a sense of closure for the affected individuals.
The legal proceedings underscore the ongoing quest for accountability and restitution in the aftermath of Brazil’s largest environmental catastrophe.
