BHP, which owns a 50% stake in Samarco, the company responsible for the dam, argues that it had limited knowledge of the dam's risks and claims no legal obligation to ensure its safety.

Outside the court, victims protested, demanding justice and highlighting the powerful influence of mining companies in Brazil's political landscape.

Recently, BHP announced negotiations for a $31.7 billion settlement with Brazilian authorities, aimed at compensating those affected by the disaster, although this will not impact the ongoing UK lawsuit.

The environmental catastrophe not only caused loss of life but also displaced over 600 people and left approximately 280,000 without access to clean water.

A significant trial has commenced in London to determine the liability of Australian mining giant BHP for the catastrophic dam collapse in Brazil in 2015, which resulted in the deaths of 19 people and left hundreds of thousands seeking compensation.

Nearly nine years after the disaster, victims are pursuing claims estimated at £36 billion (approximately €43 billion) in damages, involving over 620,000 claimants, including municipalities and indigenous peoples.

The Mariana dam collapse, which occurred on November 5, 2015, devastated the town of Bento Rodrigues and led to significant environmental destruction, including the contamination of the Doce River.

The plaintiffs assert that BHP must be held accountable as a polluter, emphasizing the extensive damages caused by the toxic waste released into the environment.

Victims like Pamela Fernandes, who lost her daughter in the disaster, expressed relief at the opportunity for justice through the UK trial, which they hope will help them move forward.

BHP claims it has already paid nearly $8 billion to affected individuals through the Renova Foundation, which was established to manage compensation and rehabilitation efforts.

The UK legal case against BHP began in 2018, with claimants seeking 'fair and full compensation' for the extensive damages incurred due to the disaster.

As the trial unfolds, the High Court will examine BHP's liability under Brazilian environmental law, with a decision expected in the second quarter of next year.