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2mo ago

London Trial Concludes Over Liability for Brazil's 2015 Dam Collapse

The High Court will decide if mining giant BHP is responsible for the disaster that killed 19 and caused extensive environmental and community damage.

Victims of Brazilian dam collapse Gelvana Silva, Monia Dos Santos and Pamela Fernandes hold a banner with Mariana Mayor Juliano Duarte outside City Court House, Rolls Building ahead of the final day of the lawsuit against BHP in London, Britain, March 13, 2025. REUTERS/Marissa Davison
Victims of Brazilian dam collapse Gelvana Silva, Monia Dos Santos and Pamela Fernandes pose for pictures outside City Court House, Rolls Building ahead of the final day of the lawsuit against BHP in London, Britain, March 13, 2025. REUTERS/Marissa Davison
Victims of Brazilian dam collapse Gelvana Silva, Monia Dos Santos and Pamela Fernandes hold a banner outside City Court House, Rolls Building ahead of the final day of the lawsuit against BHP in London, Britain, March 13, 2025. REUTERS/Marissa Davison

Overview

  • The 2015 Mariana dam collapse in Brazil released toxic sludge, killing 19 people, displacing thousands, and devastating the Doce River and surrounding areas.
  • Over 600,000 Brazilians, local governments, and businesses are suing BHP in London for up to £36 billion ($47 billion) in damages, one of the largest lawsuits in English legal history.
  • BHP argues it did not directly manage the dam, which was operated by Samarco, a joint venture it co-owned with Brazilian mining company Vale.
  • Victims' representatives claim BHP was aware of safety risks and pushed for increased production, contributing to the dam's failure.
  • A verdict is expected by mid-2025, with a potential follow-up trial in 2026 to determine compensation amounts if BHP is found liable.