BHP Denied Appeal Over Brazil's Fundao Dam Disaster Liability

BHP has been denied permission to appeal a ruling that held them liable for the 2015 Fundao dam collapse in Brazil. The lawsuit could be worth up to £36 billion. BHP plans to approach the Court of Appeal directly in a case linked to Brazil's worst environmental disaster.

BHP has been refused permission to appeal a ruling holding the company liable for the 2015 dam collapse in southeastern Brazil. London's High Court ruled against the appeal, with BHP intending to take the matter to the Court of Appeal. This case may involve tens of billions in damages.

The fallout from the disaster, considered Brazil's worst environmental catastrophe, has resulted in a significant legal battle. The claimants estimate the lawsuit's value at up to £36 billion, and they demand nearly £200 million in legal fees following their initial success in court.

BHP's liability for damages was settled in the initial trial stage, with an upcoming trial to determine the compensation. The dam collapse led to 19 deaths, thousands left homeless, and severe environmental damage, flooding forests and polluting the Doce River.

(With inputs from agencies.)