UPDATE: BHP is on the brink of a pivotal legal ruling that could determine its liability for billions in compensation linked to the catastrophic collapse of the Fundão tailings dam in Brazil. The United Kingdom’s court is set to announce its decision at 9:30 AM (GMT) on Friday, marking a significant milestone in a case described as the largest environmental class action in English history.
The 2015 disaster near Mariana resulted in the deaths of 19 people and unleashed devastating environmental damage, contaminating waterways across hundreds of kilometers. The dam, owned by the joint venture Samarco—a collaboration between BHP and Vale—has left a lasting impact on the region and its residents.
After years of legal battles, Friday’s ruling will determine if BHP can be held legally accountable for the dam’s failure. This verdict not only carries potential financial implications but also serves as a crucial moment for over 600,000 claimants who argue that they have received inadequate compensation for the widespread devastation.
If the court finds against BHP, the mining giant could face additional compensation costs, potentially adding billions to an already staggering bill. BHP and Vale previously agreed to settle claims amounting to $2.1 billion, yet critics, including the law firm Pogust Goodhead, argue that the compensation fails to address the scale of the environmental and social harm inflicted. They have filed a claim that could reach as high as £36 billion ($72.5 billion).
BHP has already paid $31.7 billion in reparations to Brazilian authorities, to be dispensed over two decades. However, plaintiffs allege that many affected individuals, municipalities, businesses, and faith organizations have been excluded or inadequately compensated. Alinne Ribeiro, whose husband died in the disaster, expressed her hope that the ruling will pave the way for justice, saying, “This judgment will bring justice and ensure that this type of crime is never allowed to happen again.”
The long-awaited verdict comes on the 10th anniversary of the tragedy, a somber reminder of the human and environmental toll. Authorities confirm that if BHP is deemed liable, the case will advance to determine individual claimant eligibility and compensation amounts. However, the possibility of an appeal looms for whichever side loses.
The implications of this ruling extend beyond financial compensation; it underscores the importance of corporate responsibility in the mining sector and the protection of vulnerable communities. As the clock ticks down to the verdict, all eyes are on BHP and the potential ramifications of the court’s decision.
Stay tuned for real-time updates as this urgent situation unfolds.
