On January 25, 2019, a tailings dam collapsed at our C¨®rrego do Feij?o mine, in the city of Brumadinho, state of Minas Gerais. The dam was built in 1976 by a German mining company and was purchased by ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ in 2001. Since July 2016, the dam had been inactive, out of operation, and at the time of the collapse, the decommissioning process was under study, with some tests being carried out to evaluate the best way to decommission the dam.
The collapse released a flow of tailings that reached our administrative area at the C¨®rrego do Feij?o mine and the communities of C¨®rrego do Feij?o and Parque da Cachoeira, outside Brumadinho, as well as the surroundings of the Paraopeba River. The collapse resulted in 270 fatalities, including two pregnant women. The incident also caused material and environmental damage in the region. Among the victims, two remain missing, and searches continue at the site with the support of the fire department.
We will never forget Brumadinho. We reaffirm our respect for the victims and their families, prioritizing the integral reparation of Brumadinho and are committed to the non-repetition of another dam breach.
Reparation: A detailed timeline of the actions of the reparation to date can be found in our Reparation Day by Day report from November 2023.
Emergency Actions: Immediately after the dam breach, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ took emergency measures in Brumadinho to assist victims, their families, and the community (including Indigenous peoples and traditional communities). These initiatives included the payment of emergency aid and compensation, provision of temporary housing and basic necessities, water (for the community, animals, and agricultural use), health care (including psychological support), animal rescue and shelter, supply of animal feed for agriculture, and local transportation, as well as payments to public agencies for additional community assistance. ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ also created service points for the local population. At the same time, the company carried out emergency works to contain the tailings and provided resources for search and rescue missions with the support of the fire department, including cutting-edge equipment and necessary infrastructure. For details on these emergency actions, please refer to the Reparation Routine reports available here.
Integral Reparation Agreement
In February 2021, we signed an Integral Reparation Agreement with government authorities, committing to the integral reparation, implementing actions to restore and remediate the community and the environment. The agreement totals R$ 37.7 billion for the complete reparation to be concluded within 10 years, including R$ 6.3 billion disbursed until February 2021, R$ 11.4 billion in obligations for implementing projects (¡°To-do¡±), and R$ 19.9 billion to pay public authorities.
The reparation works within the agreement cover three categories of obligations: socioenvironmental obligations, socioeconomic obligations, and other compensatory measures.
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Socioenvironmental obligations aim to restore the environment and compensate (financially or otherwise) for impacts, damages, or losses caused by the dam collapse. Compensation for known environmental damages is R$ 1.55 billion, and environmental recovery is estimated at R$ 5.0 billion.
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Other compensatory measures, totaling R$ 303 million, include agreements signed with the Civil Defense program, the fire department, among others.
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Before socioeconomic initiatives and projects are carried out for Brumadinho and the other 25 municipalities affected in the Paraopeba basin, consultations are held with affected individuals to prioritize investments. Projects for the Paraopeba basin total R$ 2.5 billion (+ payment obligations), and for Brumadinho, R$ 1.5 billion?
Progress on the Integral Reparation Agreement
In October 2024, overall, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ completed 80% of the economic progress of the agreement (49% of the ¡°To Do¡± repair works and 95% of the ¡°To Pay¡± repair works) according to the schedule. It is estimated that 100% of the payment obligations will be fulfilled by 2026. The ¡°To Do¡± obligations are expected to be completed by 2031, fulfilling 100% of the Integral Judicial Reparation Agreement.
Financial commitment: As a result of the dam failure, the Company recognized provisions to meet its assumed obligations to the remediation of the impacted areas and compensation to society.
Individual indemnification: Individual indemnification was not covered by the Integral Reparation Agreement. For the individual indemnification, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ formalized an agreement with the Public Defender¡¯s Office of the State of Minas Gerais in April 2019, under which those affected by Brumadinho¡¯s dam failure may join an individual or a family group out-of-court settlement agreement for the indemnification of material, economic and moral damages. This agreement establishes the basis for a wide range of indemnification payments, which were defined according to the best practices and case law of Brazilian Courts, following rules and principles of the United Nations. As of October 2025, 96% of the extrajudicial compensation cases have been completed. ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ has paid R$ 3.9 billion in indemnifications for approximately 17,400 people. For more information on the indemnity program, please visit: Indemnity - ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½.
Water monitoring
The quality of the waters of the Paraopeba River has shown consistent signs of recovery, being more evident during dry periods, when results are similar to or better than historical reference values. Information on water monitoring and quality can be found on our Environmental Reparation page. These results are consistent with monitoring data from the Minas Gerais Institute for Water Management (IGAM) (read more in the and in the ).
Socio-economic development
To support socioeconomic development in the region, several initiatives have been created to improve quality of life, increase local tourism, and support residents¡¯ livelihoods. These initiatives are planned based on active engagement with communities to meet their needs. This includes the delivery of the Community Marketplace, the Culture and Handicraft Center, the Community Square, and the Soccer Field¡ªstructures that have been embraced by the C¨®rrego do Feij?o community through use and participatory management. These spaces have boosted income generation, promoted a networked economy, strengthened the local economy, and expanded opportunities for business, leisure, and culture, contributing to economic revitalization and tourism development while respecting local memory and culture.
In addition, structural actions have been implemented in Brumadinho, such as the Sustainable Tourism Program, which supports tourism promotion, workforce qualification, and the attraction of new businesses. There are also initiatives to promote family farming and the implementation of agroforestry systems, expanding job opportunities and productive diversification in the region.
Currently, 450 local associations and small businesses are being supported in Brumadinho and the Paraopeba Basin, directly and indirectly impacting more than 17,000 people in the region.
Social and infrastructure projects are also planned with active consultation with communities and in partnership with the public sector. The focus is on improving quality of life and collective well-being, with an emphasis on creating local jobs. Initiatives include building daycare centers, public squares, sidewalks, and investing in medical equipment.
For more information on the Reparation works, please visit /esg/brumadinho.
Community member participation in the decision-making of the Reparation actions
The initiatives in the Integral Reparation Agreement are planned with active consultation of community members, municipal governments, the state government of Minas Gerais, regulatory and oversight agencies, the judiciary, and audit support, all of which contribute according to the respective initiative for the joint development of solutions. Community members include Indigenous peoples and traditional communities, in accordance with ILO Convention 169.
Accountability and Independent Audit
Our commitment to integral reparation for the Brumadinho disaster includes transparency in managing the entire process and maintaining constant dialogue and communication at each stage. Every six months, we publish a report (available here) on ongoing initiatives, including funds invested, major projects completed, and other details.
Our ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½+ Comunidade publication provides monthly updates on key initiatives, presented separately for Brumadinho and the Paraopeba River Basin and its 25 municipalities (excluding Brumadinho).
Additionally, the, coordinated by the compliance enforcement agencies provides detailed information on ongoing initiatives and projects as well as the entire history of the development of this instrument. This committee is supported by independent audits to assist in decision-making on socioeconomic reparation projects (Getulio Vargas Foundation) and socioenvironmental projects (AECOM), as well as financial auditing (E&Y). Learn more?.?
Besides ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½?s regular listening channels (/contact-us), we also have a specific Reparation support line (0800-031-0831) for any stakeholders that would like to contact ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ regarding the reparation or indemnification process.
What caused the dam breach?
Immediately after the dam breach, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s Board of Directors assembled an independent panel of experts, composed of world-class specialists in geotechnics and engineers to investigate the causes of the dam breach. The report, along with ten appendices and a concise explanatory video (available ) revealed that multiple factors, including small and cumulative events combined with a potentially very brittle behavior of its tailings could have triggered the rupture. The brittle behavior is a relevant finding because with the traditional approach to evaluating the stability of dams used at that time, it would be concluded that the dam is stable and safe.
At the same time, the Brazilian Public Prosecutors contracted a separate study (available ) which revealed that due to a particularly unfavorable combination of circumstances at a specific area inside of the dam, including regular drilling by a specialized company as part of the regular dam monitoring, worked as a trigger which led to the liquefaction of the structure.? Nonetheless, this separate study also concluded, through numerical analysis, that if the drilling of this one well in this specific area had not been conducted, the dam would remain stable for another 100 years.?
These studies were a game changer for dam management and created significant changes in industry standards.
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s transformation
Brumadinho was a milestone that drove profound transformations at ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½, especially in governance and dam safety. The company adopted the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM), intensified geotechnical monitoring, implemented independent audits, and invested in the decharacterization of upstream structures. ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ also began investing in technologies to reduce reliance on dams and promote circular mining, in addition to starting a cultural transformation journey and establishing ambitious ESG commitments.
For information on:
- Our targets and current progress toward our commitments, visit: /esg/our-commitments.
- Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM), visit: /gistm.
- Dam management and safety, visit: /dams.
- Circular Mining, visit: /circular-mining.
Updated in November 2025
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ does not conduct mineral exploration or mining activities of any kind within Indigenous Lands in Brazil. The company strictly complies with applicable legislation and is committed to the process of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) with Indigenous communities. ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ further states that its current production plan does not consider mineral resources or mineral reserves located within Indigenous Lands in Brazil.
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s relationship with Indigenous Peoples and Traditional Communities is guided by its Global Human Rights Policy, which is aligned with key international standards on the subject, including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The company also considers the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) Position Statement on Mining and Indigenous Peoples, ILO Convention No. 169, among other international references, as well as the legislation applicable in the countries where ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ operates.
Regarding allegations of contamination of the Catet¨¦ River and health issues allegedly caused by impacts from the On?a Puma Mine on the Xikrin do Catet¨¦ Indigenous People, expert reports prepared by court-appointed specialists linked to the Federal Civil and Criminal Court of Reden??o concluded that the operation is not the source of contamination of the river. The reports confirm that ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ conducts environmental monitoring in accordance with the conditions established by regulatory authorities and adopts appropriate control measures to mitigate potential impacts on water resources. The scientific analyses carried out demonstrated the absence of a causal link between the On?a Puma mining operation and the alleged contamination of the Catet¨¦ River. In addition, it is important to note the existence of other potentially polluting activities in the region, such as illegal mining, the use of agricultural chemicals, and deforestation.
The Itacai¨²nas River Basin, which includes the Catet¨¦ River and its tributaries, naturally contains metals such as iron, manganese, nickel, lead, and others, due to the geology of the region¡ªa fact also identified in the judicial expert reports. In many cases, these elements occur naturally in water and soil at elevated concentrations. This condition was documented in the Environmental Impact Study (EIA) and the Environmental Impact Report (RIMA) prepared in 2004, well before the beginning of operations at the On?a Puma Mine, as part of the project¡¯s environmental licensing process. It was further supported by background studies and confirmed by judicial experts. The experts also identified elevated concentrations of metals in another watercourse within the basin¡ªthe Seco River¡ªwhich is distant from the operation site and flows into the Catet¨¦ River downstream from the mining operation.
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ reiterates that it maintains a systematic and continuous monitoring program for surface water and effluents associated with the On?a Puma operation, with historical records dating back to 2008. The results of this monitoring are regularly submitted to the Par¨¢ State Secretariat for Environment and Sustainability (SEMAS-PA), which, in 2023, confirmed the operational compliance of the project through a technical report evaluating fulfillment of the established conditions. This conclusion is consistent with the findings of the court-appointed experts linked to the Federal Civil and Criminal Court of Reden??o and reinforces ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s commitment to respecting the communities neighboring its operations.
Despite the evidence demonstrating the absence of a causal relationship between the On?a Puma operation and the health conditions of the Xikrin do Catet¨¦ Indigenous People, the Federal Public Prosecutor¡¯s Office filed a new Public Civil Action in 2025 against the Federal Government, the State of Par¨¢, and ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½, alleging responsibility for the health conditions of the Indigenous population and requesting the implementation of measures aimed at improving this situation. In this new legal proceeding, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ reiterated the regularity and legitimacy of the On?a Puma operation and the effectiveness of its impact control and mitigation mechanisms as grounds excluding the Company from liability.
With regard to the Xikrin do Catet¨¦ People, the agreement signed within the scope of the On?a Puma Public Civil Action¡ªwhich addresses environmental issues related to the Catet¨¦ River as well as other socioeconomic matters associated with the On?a Puma operation, Salobo, S11D, Caraj¨¢s Railway, and the Alem?o Project¡ªresolved nearly all judicial disputes.
Regarding the Kayap¨® People, who were also parties to the original On?a Puma Public Civil Action, the agreement signed and ratified by the Judiciary likewise resolved the dispute involving that group. It is important to note that the Kayap¨® Indigenous Land is located more than 30 kilometers from the On?a Puma operation and outside the Catet¨¦ River Basin; therefore, it has no environmental connection with either the project or the Catet¨¦ River itself.
Since the signing of these agreements, relationships with these Indigenous Peoples have been strengthened, and voluntary initiatives aimed at promoting empowerment and autonomy have been developed in alignment with ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s relationship strategy, focused on building trust, autonomy, resilience, and mutual benefits. Examples include initiatives supporting the ethnodevelopment of the Xikrin People, particularly the Xikrin do Catet¨¦ Culture and Memory Appreciation Project.
With the Kayap¨® People, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ supported the development of the Territorial and Environmental Management Plan (PGTA) and the Consultation Protocol, which was prepared by the Protected Forest Indigenous Association and approved during the General Assembly of Chiefs and Leaders of the Kayap¨® Indigenous Land, held in Gorotire Village in January 2024.
This initiative is part of ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s Indigenous Rights Agenda, through which the company has committed to supporting, by 2030, the development of at least one structured initiative¡ªsuch as Consultation Protocols, Territorial and Environmental Management Plans (PGTAs), or Life Plans¡ªfor 11 Indigenous Peoples in Brazil.
For more information about ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s Social Ambition for Indigenous Peoples, visit: /esg/indigenous-peoples-and-traditional-communities
Last updated in July 2026.
Inaugurated in the 1980s, the Caraj¨¢s Railway (EFC) spans 972 kilometers, connecting the Caraj¨¢s mines in southeastern Par¨¢ to the Ponta da Madeira Maritime Terminal in S?o Lu¨ªs (MA). Approximately 350,000 passengers use the railway each year. In addition, the EFC transports cargo such as iron ore, pig iron, manganese, copper, fuels, and coal, which are essential to the regional economy.
In the states of Maranh?o and Par¨¢, the railway passes near various territories of Indigenous Peoples, Quilombola Communities, and other Traditional Communities. These populations are recognized for their unique relationship with the territory, which encompasses not only physical and socioeconomic aspects but also cultural.
Since the 1980s, during the construction of the EFC, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ has maintained relationships with these communities. Currently, engagement activities are carried out by dedicated professionals with multidisciplinary backgrounds and experience in the field. It is important to note that ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s relationship with Indigenous Peoples and Traditional Communities is guided by its Global Human Rights Policy, which aligns with key international references such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Also considered are the International Council on Mining and Metals¡¯ Position Statement on Mining and Indigenous Peoples, ILO Convention No. 169, among others, as well as the legislation of the countries where ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ operates.
The company operates with respect for the rights of these communities, managing risks and impacts of its operations and upholding the process of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC), while also contributing to institutional strengthening and the appreciation of traditional ways of life, aiming for value sharing and partnership.
Maranh?o ¨C Indigenous Peoples
In Maranh?o, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ maintains relationships with the Aw¨¢-Guaj¨¢, Guajajara, and Ka¡¯apor Indigenous Peoples, whose territories include the Caru, Rio Pindar¨¦, Aw¨¢, and Alto Turia?u Indigenous Lands. The interface with the Caraj¨¢s Railway (EFC) occurs in the Caru Indigenous Land, which borders the railway operation, and in the Rio Pindar¨¦ Indigenous Land, located approximately 2 km from the railway. The other Indigenous Lands were also considered due to the presence of villages and isolated groups of the Aw¨¢-Guaj¨¢ People, respecting this community¡¯s relationship with and use of their territory. The specificities of these Indigenous Peoples have been and continue to be respected throughout the EFC expansion process, in accordance with Brazilian legislation, international principles, and ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s internal policies.
Long-term agreements have been established with these communities to support actions for territorial protection, preservation and conservation of natural resources, economic sustainability, income generation, cultural and institutional strengthening, productive activities, and other initiatives that contribute to the ethnodevelopment of these communities. The development and monitoring of these agreements involve Funai as an intervening party in the various instruments signed.
Since 2016, the company has been implementing obligations associated with the operation of the Caraj¨¢s Railway (EFC) through the Indigenous Component of the Environmental Basic Plan (CI-PBA) for the Aw¨¢-Guaj¨¢ and Guajajara Peoples, which is governed and managed jointly with the Indigenous communities. Among the initiatives carried out, notable examples include actions aimed at cultural strengthening and ethnodevelopment, such as the construction of cultural centers, traditional kitchens, facilities for fish farming and agricultural production, as well as territorial protection measures, including the provision of equipment and the training of more than 200 Indigenous guardians.
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ also maintains a Cooperation and Commitment Agreement with the Guajajara, Awa-Guaj¨¢, and Ka¡¯apor Peoples, which includes actions for institutional strengthening and infrastructure projects and territorial protection.
Maranh?o ¨C Indigenous Peoples
The long-term agreements aim to support initiatives focused on territorial protection, the preservation and conservation of natural resources, economic sustainability, income generation, cultural and institutional strengthening, as well as productive activities that contribute to the ethnodevelopment of Indigenous communities. The National Foundation for Indigenous Peoples (Funai) participates as an intervening party in the various agreements and instruments executed.
In addition to the actions established under formal agreements and commitments, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ also develops voluntary initiatives with the three Indigenous Peoples, including projects focused on infrastructure, improvements to internal village access roads, and cultural strengthening. A notable example is the Vidas Ind¨ªgenas Maranh?o ¨C Ka¡¯apor and Aw¨¢-Guaj¨¢ Peoples program, carried out in partnership with the Museum of the Person (Museu da Pessoa), which seeks to value Indigenous life stories through the preservation and dissemination of their culture.
Another relevant initiative is the Indigenous Health Cycle project, which promotes health and education activities within Indigenous territories. The project seeks to strengthen the relationship between the Indigenous Multidisciplinary Health Teams (EMSI) and the communities through intercultural strategies that improve communication and expand access to comprehensive and culturally appropriate healthcare.
Members of the Guajajara People from the Caru Indigenous Land and the Ka¡¯apor People from the Alto Turia?u Indigenous Land also participated in training sessions on Indigenous Peoples¡¯ Rights promoted by ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ in 2023. At the request of the communities, the Environmental Management, Climate Change, and Political Action Course, designed and delivered by the Latin American Faculty of Social Sciences (FLACSO), began in 2025 as part of the implementation of the Territorial and Environmental Management Plans (PGTA) for the Rio Pindar¨¦ and Caru Indigenous Lands, with completion scheduled for August 2026. In 2024, the Ka¡¯apor People began developing their Life Plan, which was completed in 2025 and is scheduled to be formally launched in August 2026.
In February 2026, the Aw¨¢-Guaj¨¢ People responded positively to a consultation regarding their interest in participating in the Indigenous Rights Agenda, defining the themes and actions to be developed through 2027. The consultation process included the participation of community leaders, members from all villages, and representatives of Funai.
Par¨¢ ¨C Indigenous Peoples
In another section of the Caraj¨¢s Railway (EFC), in the state of Par¨¢, in the municipality of Bom Jesus do Tocantins, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ has maintained relationships with the Parkat¨ºj¨º, Kyikat¨ºj¨º, and Akr?tikat¨ºj¨º groups of the Gavi?o Indigenous People from the M?e Maria Indigenous Land since the 1980s.
Over the years, partnerships and support initiatives have been formalized with the Gavi?o community, including actions in the areas of health, education, productive activities, protection, ethnodevelopment, income generation, and territorial monitoring.
In line with its Global Human Rights Policy, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ is committed to respecting these communities and maintaining ongoing dialogue and engagement. In this context, the company supported the development of the Life Plan for the Indigenous Peoples of the M?e Maria Indigenous Land, through a participatory methodology that promoted reflection and discussion on strategies to improve their quality of life and guide ongoing projects and activities.
As part of the environmental licensing process for the EFC expansion works, an Indigenous Component ¨C Environmental Basic Plan (CI-PBA) was developed. Like the plan prepared for the Indigenous communities neighboring the EFC in Maranh?o, it was conducted with the support of specialized consultants and approved by the Indigenous communities. The CI-PBA includes programs designed to mitigate and/or compensate for the impacts of the EFC expansion identified in the Indigenous Component Study (ECI), which was prepared as an integral part of the environmental licensing process for the section adjacent to the M?e Maria Indigenous Land. Among the programs currently being implemented under the CI-PBA are initiatives related to productive activities, cultural strengthening, strengthening Indigenous organizations, territorial protection, and environmental and territorial management. These programs were approved in December 2022 and remain ongoing.
On a voluntary basis, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ has also supported the Gavi?o People in strengthening their institutions and associations through workshops, training, and capacity-building initiatives, including topics related to resource management and governance.
It is important to note that all ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ activities that may affect the community are communicated in advance by the company, thereby implementing the process of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) and seeking to maintain a transparent and good-faith relationship with the Indigenous communities neighboring the EFC.
For more information on ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s work with Indigenous Peoples and Traditional Communities, please visit the relevant webpage.
Last updated in July 2026.
Background
The neighborhood of Piqui¨¢ de Baixo, located in the municipality of A?ail?ndia, Maranh?o, originated in the 1970s when workers migrated to the region attracted by opportunities in agriculture, livestock, sawmill operations, and the construction of the BR-222 highway, which connected the interior of the state to the capital, S?o Lu¨ªs.
Beginning in the 1980s, with the implementation of the Caraj¨¢s Project, the region underwent a process of industrialization, driven mainly by the arrival of pig iron-producing steel plants and the construction of the Caraj¨¢s Railway (EFC), through which iron ore extracted in Caraj¨¢s, Par¨¢, is transported to the port of S?o Lu¨ªs, Maranh?o.
This industrialization process generated environmental and social impacts on the lives of local residents. Since the 1990s, community members, together with organizations and social movements, have advocated for the management, mitigation, and compensation of impacts caused by companies operating in the region, as well as improvements in quality of life, including the relocation of families from Piqui¨¢ de Baixo.
Following the publication of reports containing allegations of human rights violations by companies operating in the area, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ proactively engaged stakeholders to improve impact management, including proposing the creation of a community management committee to monitor actions.
It is important to note that ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ does not conduct or promote mining activities (ore extraction or processing) in A?ail?ndia. Nor does it own a pig iron production plant in the A?ail?ndia Industrial Chemical Park (Piqui¨¢), Maranh?o, and it has no dependency or subordinate relationship with the steel companies operating in the territory. ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s relationship with companies in the sector is strictly commercial, when requested to supply iron ore originating from Par¨¢. In this context, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ has always sought to comply rigorously with environmental regulations, maintaining controls and monitoring across all ore-related operations, while remaining attentive to the community¡¯s social concerns and actively participating in discussions and solutions alongside public authorities and steel companies.
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ considers environmental factors and all applicable legislation and manages its processes using available technologies for environmental control, preventing and mitigating impacts. ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s social performance is guided by an ongoing process of managing the risks and impacts of its activities on neighboring communities and supporting territorial development. Through alliances and partnerships, the company continually seeks solutions to challenges faced by communities and society.
In the Piqui¨¢ region, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ conducts activities in a participatory manner, focused on contributing to integrated territorial development through initiatives organized around priority pillars: Housing, Environmental, Social, and Institutional, all defined through ongoing dialogue with the community.
Housing Pillar
Since 2017, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ and Funda??o ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½, through voluntary investments, have implemented cooperation agreements with the Piqui¨¢ Community Association and Caixa Econ?mica Federal aimed at constructing 312 houses for the new community neighborhood known as ¡°Piqui¨¢ da Conquista.¡± The homes were delivered in October 2024 during a ceremony organized by the Federal Government and the Ministry of Cities, with ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s participation.
The project received R$ 45 million in investments from ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ and Funda??o ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½, in addition to institutional support with public agencies and collaboration with municipal, state, and federal government entities. The State Government delivered a Primary Healthcare Unit and initiated construction of a market, school, sports court, and family square.
Beyond its investment in the construction of Piqui¨¢ da Conquista, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ acted proactively, in dialogue with the National Secretariat for Social Dialogue, the Municipality of A?ail?ndia, and Caixa Econ?mica Federal, to address the community¡¯s request for waivers of housing financing payments, subject to family eligibility through the Federal Social Registry (CAD?nico) and the Continuous Cash Benefit Program (BPC). This request was under review by Caixa, with more than 100 families considered eligible.
Environmental Pillar
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ continues implementing actions aimed at mitigating particulate emissions during the road transportation of iron ore between ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ facilities and industrial plants through road paving, maintenance, and cleaning activities in partnership with local authorities.
The company also monitors, together with the industrial plants operating in the area, the decommissioning of steel furnaces and compliance with applicable legal and market environmental standards, reinforcing ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s commitment to supporting initiatives that benefit the entire Piqui¨¢ region.
Social and Institutional Pillar
Within the social and institutional sphere, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ is implementing a participatory Socioeconomic Development Plan for Piqui¨¢.
Developed through cross-sector collaboration with public authorities and other regional companies, the plan encompasses the following dimensions:
a) Community Strengthening
The assessment identified the need to establish a community headquarters to improve conditions for the representative group of the Piqui¨¢ region, which voluntarily works to strengthen local associations. This initiative was prioritized and will be implemented with ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s support beginning in November 2025.
b) Infrastructure
Focused on promoting sustainable and territorial development, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ contributes to and invests in initiatives such as stormwater drainage works and long-term planning efforts including local revitalization.
In April 2026, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ allocated R$ 1.9 million to the Municipality of A?ail?ndia as a social contribution for drainage works in the Novo Horizonte neighborhood, adjacent to Piqui¨¢ da Conquista.
Construction of the headquarters of the Piqui¨¢ Association (Astepi) is also underway. Through the Community Relationship Plan (PRC), this initiative has supported the organization's development and integration into the region¡¯s governance network.
The implementation of the new housing complex financed by ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ created a combined impact involving stormwater runoff from Piqui¨¢ da Conquista into Novo Horizonte. As a result, the need for a drainage system was identified. In response, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ formalized the donation of complementary materials for the drainage project to the Municipality of A?ail?ndia, following recommendations from the Secretariat for Social Dialogue of the Presidency of the Republic and the Public Prosecutor¡¯s Office of Maranh?o/A?ail?ndia. The municipal infrastructure department will execute the works.
c) Health
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ and Funda??o ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½, through the Health and Social Protection Cycle Project (CSPS), have been strengthening primary healthcare and expanding access to health and social assistance services, particularly for vulnerable populations. This has been achieved through infrastructure improvements, procurement of supplies and equipment, and training of health and social assistance professionals.
In the Piqui¨¢ region, the CSPS operates in three health clinics (UBS Piqui¨¢ da Conquista, UBS Jos¨¦ Francisco, and UBS Plano da Serra) and in the CRAS Piqui¨¢ Social Assistance Reference Center.
In 2025, the project trained 460 professionals from Brazil¡¯s public health and social assistance systems and donated 968 information technology items, including notebooks and tablets, to the municipality of A?ail?ndia. These resources supported patient monitoring and planning activities within the public health and social assistance systems.
d) Education
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ supported training programs for Maranh?o¡¯s state and municipal public education networks through a Funda??o ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ initiative in partnership with FGV, known as Tracks of Literacy (Trilhos da Alfabetiza??o), which also benefits the Piqui¨¢ region.
The company also supported renovations to Piqui¨¢ de Baixo Almirante Barroso School in 2023, benefiting 136 students.
Through the Routes and Literary Networks project, Funda??o ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ renovated and equipped reading rooms in Piqui¨¢ schools, donated book collections, and trained education professionals on reading-related topics. Approximately 6,000 books were donated to schools in A?ail?ndia, including 630 books for Piqui¨¢.
In 2025, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ contributed to literacy initiatives for children in the first five years of elementary education at two schools (EM Eduardo Pereira Duarte and EM Darcy Ribeiro). A total of 479 students benefited, and 22 professionals received training.
e) Employment and Income Generation
To promote local entrepreneurship and income generation, Funda??o ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ operates the AGIR Program (Support for Income Generation and Enhancement), which supports five community businesses in A?ail?ndia.
Through AGIR, entrepreneurs receive specialized consulting in business management and operations, customized training, support in partnership development and fundraising, and seed capital for business structuring and expansion.
The program also supports the Piqui¨¢ Open Market, a venture composed of 26 entrepreneurs who produce and market local products while promoting the preservation of regional culture and the use of public spaces.
Additionally, AGIR supports beekeepers associated with AAVA ¨C ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ do A?ail?ndia Agroindustrial Association. The honey is produced in an apiary area provided by Suzano through a technical cooperation partnership with Funda??o ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½.
In 2025, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ also implemented its Young Apprentice Program within the Piqui¨¢ community. In this edition, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ offered 20 positions in an Electromechanical Technician training program, with practical experience in Maintenance or Operations. Participants were admitted in February 2025, with completion scheduled for 2027. Apprentices receive a stipend and additional benefits.
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ reaffirms its commitment to continuing dialogue and building social development solutions with the Piqui¨¢ community, civil society organizations, public authorities, and private-sector partners in order to promote human rights, community empowerment, and stronger public policies and governance, generating sustainable outcomes for the region.
Last updated in July 2026.
Context
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½'s undue inclusion on the ¡°dirty list¡± was related to an event that took place in February 2015, when the company Ouro Verde Loca??es e Servi?os S.A., which provided transportation services for final products between the Pico and F¨¢brica mines for ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ S.A. in Minas Gerais, had its workplace inspected by the Ministry of Labor and Employment. The inspection revealed non-compliance with labor obligations regarding changing room conditions, cleanliness, access to water, and working hours, among others.
The Ministry of Labor and Employment, adopting a broad interpretation of the law, considered that the outsourcing of the transportation was illegal, arguing that it was part of ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½'s core activities and that, therefore, Ouro Verde employees should be considered ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ employees. It is important to note that these workers were never deprived of their liberty, were duly registered, received adequate transportation, had their work cards signed, had no documents withheld nor had debt owed to the company, and were not in poor working conditions.
Due to the extensive interpretation of the legislation adopted by the Ministry of Labor and Employment, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ S.A. was fined for alleged irregularities committed by Ouro Verde, including illegal outsourcing and modern slavery. As the fines were not consistent with the working reality of those service providers, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½, in 2016, filed lawsuits to annul the fines related to outsourcing and the working conditions of third-party workers. The Company also reinforced the work of internal groups to identify and make continuous improvements to facilities and workstations.
Remediation actions in 2015
At the time ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ became aware of the findings in the infraction notice, the Company, in collaboration with the authorities, immediately corrected the labor irregularities incurred by the service provider and subsequently terminated the contract with Ouro Verde.
In addition, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ developed a ¡°forced labor prevention plan¡±, through which it improved its corporate governance system; began to carry out training on subcontracting with a focus on the protection of human rights; and hired external consultants to assist in the prevention of labor irregularities related to health, hygiene and safety at work, among other actions.
Long-term corrective and preventive measures
Human Rights Policy ¨C Since 2009, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ has a Human Rights Policy which establishes general guidelines and principles so that its actions respect and promote all human rights in the development of its activities and partnerships in its value chain.
Contract management ¨C ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ has a contract management procedure for compliance with health and safety standards and construction sites (checklist for inspections).
Contractual clauses ¨C The contractual clauses related to human rights issues allow the termination of the contract in the event of the use of modern slavery and non-compliance with labor legislation.
Strengthened dialogue ¨C Dialogue between ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ and worker unions and labor organizations representing third-party workers has also been expanded.
Engagement with suppliers ¨C Holding conferences, training and webinars and the Decent Work Caravans with the participation of the Regional Labor Secretariats.
Whistleblowing Channel ¨C The Whistleblowing Channel was expanded to investigate possible irregularities, including those of suppliers and contractors.
Independent Human rights due diligence ¨C Since 2019, the company has carried out independent human rights due diligence on its operations and supply chain. Based on the findings, corrective action plans are drawn up for the operations or suppliers, which are monitored by ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½.
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ condemns any form of disrespect for human rights and degrading working conditions and reaffirms its commitment to maintaining decent working conditions and respecting human rights in all its activities.
For more information on human rights management of ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½'s suppliers, visit the ESG Human Rights Portal.
Last update in November 2025.
The history of the Tubar?o Unit began in 1966 with the transfer of ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s port operations from the Atalaia and Paul docks in Vila Velha to a new location capable of meeting the growing demand for iron ore at the time. The Tubar?o Port was already interconnected with the Vit¨®ria to Minas Railway (EFVM), becoming the driving force behind ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s activities in Esp¨ªrito Santo and a springboard for the state ¡ª whose economy was previously centered on coffee ¡ª to diversify into other industrial and commercial sectors. The port handles the movement of iron ore, grains, fertilizers, and coal.
For decades, the company has invested in reducing particulate matter emissions from pelletizing activities and product handling at the Tubar?o Unit. Environmental control technologies widely used on-site include polymer application over material piles, electrostatic precipitators in the plants, and wind fences around storage yards.
Reinforcing its commitment to minimizing dust emissions, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ has completed the Environmental Commitment Agreement (TCA) signed with public authorities and celebrates a milestone in its Esp¨ªrito Santo operations: a 93% reduction in diffuse dust emissions at the Tubar?o Unit compared to 2010. This achievement results from an investment of approximately R$ 5 billion in the company¡¯s Environmental Master Plan (PDA), launched in 2018.
The Tubar?o PDA included actions aligned with recommendations from technical bodies, focusing on addressing sources of diffuse emissions from product movement in yards, conveyor belts, and piers.
A total of 131 projects were implemented to improve atmospheric management, including the installation of new equipment, enhancements to atmospheric environmental controls, and studies of new technologies. Key initiatives include the expansion of the internal monitoring network, operated by the Environmental Control Center, with 53 monitoring points to ensure continuous oversight of all controls; closure of 20,500 m? of temporary storage areas and wagon tippler zones; enclosure of conveyor belts ¡ª totaling 21 km of ore, pellet, and coal conveyors; installation of new wind fences, adding 6 km of structures up to 30 meters high ¡ª the first of their kind in Latin America ¡ª bringing the total to 16 km of wind barriers across all product storage yards at the Tubar?o Unit.
Examples of adopted technologies:
- Conveyor enclosures: 21 km of fully enclosed or side-covered structures to reduce emissions;
- Wind fences: 6 additional km of barriers, up to 30 meters high, totaling 16 km at the site;
- Storage area enclosures: Over 20,500 m? of material handling areas covered;
- Dust suppressants: Applied to ore piles, made from cellulose fiber and PET plastic ¡ª the latter developed in partnership with the Federal University of Esp¨ªrito Santo (UFES).
The company maintains open and direct dialogue with communities and remains available through the ¡°Al? ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡± listening channel (0800 285 7000).
Last updated: November 2025
The Samarco Fund?o Dam failure was a tragedy that will never be forgotten. As shareholders in the 50:50 non-operated joint venture, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ and BHP have always been committed to repairing the damages caused.
Original Framework Agreement (TTAC)
In March 2016, Samarco, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ and BHP Brasil entered into a Framework Agreement (¡°TTAC¡±, acronym for Termo de Transa??o e Ajustamento de Conduta, or ¡°Original Framework Agreement¡±) with the Brazilian federal government, the two Brazilian states affected by the dam failure (Esp¨ªrito Santo and Minas Gerais) and other government authorities to establish remediation and reparation programs for the communities and areas affected by the dam failure. The Renova Foundation was responsible for implementing these reparations since 2016, with ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ and BHP acting as additional trustees jointly responsible for funding the Foundation. The TTAC provided for 42 social, economic, and environmental reparation programs in the affected territories. A total of R$38 billion was spent on reparations and compensation actions executed by Renova.
Agreement Renegotiation
Under the terms of the TTAC, in 2021 a process was initiated to renegotiate the 42 socio-economic and socio-environmental programs, aiming for full reparation of the damages caused by the Fund?o dam failure and seeking more effective, efficient, comprehensive, and clearer terms for the agreement. Samarco, BHP Brasil and ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ engaged in a mediation led by the Brazilian Federal Court of Appeals of the Sixth Region, together with the Brazilian federal and state governments and other public entities, to reach a definitive settlement of obligations under the TTAC, the Federal Public Prosecution Office claims, and other claims by government entities related to the Samarco dam failure.
2024 Definitive Settlement in Brazil for the full reparation of Samarco¡¯s Fund?o Dam Collapse
On October 25th, 2024, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ S.A., BHP Billiton Brasil Ltda and Samarco Minera??o S.A., together with the Brazilian Federal Government, the state governments of Minas Gerais and Esp¨ªrito Santo, the Federal and State Prosecutors¡¯ and Public Defenders¡¯ offices, and other Brazilian public entities signed a definitive and substantial settlement of claims related to the Fund?o dam collapse (¡°Definitive Settlement¡±). The Definitive Settlement was approved by the Brazilian Supreme Court on November 6th, 2024.
The Definitive Settlement determined the termination of the Renova Foundation and established initiatives for the definitive reparation of the damages caused by the Fund?o dam failure. From now on, responsibility for reparations lies with Samarco, the signatory Brazilian public authorities, and the municipalities that adhere to the agreement, covering all socio-environmental damages and all collective and diffuse socio-economic damages resulting from the collapse.
¡°The Definitive Settlement enabled a mutually beneficial resolution for all Parties under fair and effective terms, while creating definitiveness and legal certainty. It is the result of a high-level mediation process conducted by the Brazilian Federal Court of Appeals of the 6th Region, with open dialogue and transparency. The engagement of Brazilian authorities and public entities ensured legitimacy to the settlement, which was supported by social, environmental and technical criteria. This important agreement also reinforces our commitment to Brazilian society and to a better future for the people, communities and the environment", Gustavo Pimenta, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s CEO.
Key financial commitments
The Definitive Settlement provides for a total financial value of approximately R$170 billion?, comprising past and future obligations, to serve the people, communities, and the environment impacted by the dam failure. It sets three main lines of obligations.
? Adjusted by the Brazilian inflation index IPCA.
- Obligations to pay: Funds will support several compensation fronts, ensuring substantial resources for improvements in health, sanitation, fishing activities, and community funding, and a dedicated approach to indigenous and traditional communities, and municipalities.
- Obligations to perform: Samarco will execute certain obligations, including a voluntary-based, simplified individual indemnification system, measures towards the Doce River environmental recovery, and the completion of community resettlements, which have already reached 93%, with the expectation of reaching 96% by the end of 2025. Hence, part of the Renova Foundation¡¯s 42 programs will be gradually transferred to Samarco or the authorities, while the remaining programs will be closed. The Renova Foundation¡¯s governance body will cease upon signing.
- Samarco funding of remediation obligations: According to the terms of Samarco¡¯s Judicial Reorganization Plan (PRJ), Samarco has a funding cap of USD 1 billion for reparation/remediation obligations for the period from 2024 to 2030. Additionally, in the event of excess cash generation by Samarco at the end of each year (after fulfilling obligations such as working capital requirements, debt service, and remediation commitments), ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ and BHP Brasil may allocate 50% of this surplus to provide additional funding for remediation and compensation obligations. As shareholders of Samarco, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ and BHP Brasil are responsible for contributing to the financing of Samarco¡¯s reparation obligations whenever the company is unable to do so.
- Water quality: Since 2019/2020, the water quality of the Doce River has returned to the standards prior to the Fund?o dam failure (2015). The river is classified as Class 2 under CONAMA Resolution No. 357/2005, which allows its use for public supply with conventional treatment, including during drought periods.
Water monitoring has been carried out since 2017 by the Systematic Quali-Quantitative Monitoring Program (PMQQS), with a planned duration until 2039. The program is funded by the responsible companies, executed by specialized institutions, and audited by environmental agencies such as IBAMA and state authorities.
The monitoring network covers 696 km, with 22 automatic stations and 82 manual collection points in rivers, lagoons, estuaries, and coastal areas. Data are published in quarterly reports, semiannual reviews, and performance indicators.
In addition to water and sediments, ecological indicators are also monitored, showing signs of aquatic biodiversity recovery in several stretches of the river. - ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯s provision and cash outflow expectation: ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ reaffirms its commitments to supporting Samarco in repairing the damage caused by the Fund?o dam collapse and to the shareholders' previously agreed obligation to finance, up to a 50% share, the amounts that Samarco may eventually fail to fund as the primary obligor. The estimated timeline for cash disbursement is as follows:
Source:
? Amounts stated in real terms.
? BRL-USD exchange final rate of September 30, 2025 of 5.3186.
Legal Processes
- Processes in Brazil: ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ is a defendant in several legal proceedings brought by government authorities and civil associations claiming socioenvironmental and socioeconomic damages and remediation measures because of Samarco¡¯s Fund?o dam failure. The signing of the Definitive Settlement provides a stable framework for the execution of reparation and compensation measures related to the Samarco dam rupture. It also addresses 181 lawsuits filed by the public authorities involved in this agreement. Relevant criminal proceedings against ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ related to Fund?o and Brumadinho are outlined in our 20-F report on p. 174.
- International Claims (UK and the Netherlands): ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ believes the English and Dutch proceedings are unnecessary because they duplicate matters already covered by the existing and ongoing reparation work and legal agreements in Brazil.
- BHP Group Limited and BHP Group (UK) Limited (BHP) are defendants in a class action lawsuit in the London Court, in England, concerning compensation claims related to the collapse of the Fund?o Dam in 2015 (the English Proceedings). BHP does not consider that it is liable to the claimants in the English Proceedings. On October 21, 2024, the first-stage trial began to determine whether both BHP entities are liable to the UK claimants. If liability is established, a second-stage trial will follow to determine damages and quantum. A decision on the first-stage trial is expected between November 2025 and February 2026.
- In March 2024, a new lawsuit was filed against ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ and Samarco¡¯s Dutch subsidiary before the Amsterdam Court, in the Netherlands, seeking compensation related to the collapse of the Fund?o Dam (the Dutch Proceedings). ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ does not consider that it is liable to the claimants in the Dutch Proceedings. The case will have an initial phase to assess jurisdiction, followed by two additional phases to evaluate admissibility, liability, and damages if jurisdiction is confirmed. The trial, which will be preceded by a specific hearing on a date yet to be scheduled, will not occur before Q2 2026. ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ submitted its preliminary defense/challenge on jurisdiction (first phase) on October 7, 2025.
- BHP, BHP Brasil, and ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ entered into an agreement in which they agreed to equally share (50%/50%) any compensation that may be imposed in the English Proceedings or the Dutch Proceedings, provided such compensation is not duplicative of amounts already paid in Brazil. This agreement reinforces the commitment made by Samarco¡¯s shareholders since the signing of the TTAC in March 2016 with Brazilian public authorities, under which each party undertakes to contribute, on a 50%/50% basis, the necessary resources for the reparation of damages caused by the dam collapse, in the event Samarco is unable to do so.
Detailed terms of the Definitive Settlement
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
Parties
|
|
Settlement and releases
|
|
Payment terms
|
|
Municipalities
(Obligation to Pay) |
|
Health
(Obligation to Pay) |
|
Fishing
(Obligation to Pay) |
|
Water sanitation
(Obligation to Pay) |
|
State Projects
(Obligation to Pay) |
|
Program for Women
(Obligation to Pay) |
|
Other community funding
(Obligation to Pay) |
|
Indigenous and Traditional communities
(Obligation to Pay) |
|
Indemnification and Compensation
(Obligations to Perform) |
|
Community resettlement
(Obligations to Perform) |
|
Environment
(Obligations to Perform) |
|
Renova Foundation
|
|
PT ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ Indonesia (¡®PTVI¡¯) is a non-operated joint venture of ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ Base Metals, which holds a 33.9% share in the company, making ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ S.A. (¡®ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½¡¯) an indirect shareholder*. PTVI¡¯s operational focus is on nickel mining, smelting, and refining activities in Sorowako, South Sulawesi.
In 2023, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½, S.A. received a stakeholder letter containing allegations of social and environmental impacts related to PTVI¡¯s activities in Sorowako and Tanamalia.
The alleged social and human rights impacts related to land access, resettlement, livelihood restoration, water access and quality, lack of consultation, and intimidation by security forces
In response to the allegations, in October 2023, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ Base Metals (VBM) established a task force to help PTVI assess and address the allegations, and to help the company strengthen their approach to social, human rights, and environmental impact management in the region. An external and independent investigation was commissioned to investigate the allegations relating to water quality, freedom of expression, deprivation of livelihood and land.
The independent social risk, human rights and sustainability consultancy, tentyfifty, carried out the investigation with a team comprised of international and Indonesian consultants. The work performed was based on the UNGPs and included collecting information and documents from PTVI; as well as conducting interviews with community members. The consultancy also made several attempts to engage with the NGO Walhi. The summary report can be found here.
Regarding land, livelihoods and compensation, interviewees indicated that they were unaware of the boundaries of the PTVI concession around Sorowako, which is used by families for economic activities (e.g. farming) and/or as residential land. Concerns were also raised about differing approaches to and levels of compensation. Collectively, these contributed to a rise in social tensions and community frustration.
Regarding suppression of freedom of expression, it was confirmed that the presence of security forces during community engagements led to perceptions of intimidation, suppressing free expression. It was also noted that, past incidents, including threats to PTVI employees and community conflicts, had escalated tensions.
Regarding access to clean water in the Asuli village (Sorowako), the report indicates that the ¡°discolouration of the water could have been caused by mining-related land clearance and disturbance, or by natural soil erosion during rainfall¡±. In addition, according to interviewees, the boreholes provided by PTVI do not serve all residents, and some members of the community felt a lack of communication regarding the possible mining impacts on water sources and the actions. It is important to note that Hexavelant Chromium contamination was not raised by the communities during the investigation, and PTVI provided sample results which were compliant with Class II quality standards for Hexavalent Chromium. PTVI is taking specific actions to address the community¡¯s concerns, which can be found in the related Action Plan document on the PTVI website.
Regarding the potential future loss of livelihoods in Tanamalia, the report indicates that farmers have cleared land, without authorization, within the concession area and protected forest area to plant pepper trees. The investigation raised concerns over the impact on future livelihood due to potential exploration and mining operations in Tanamalia and the need for participatory stakeholder engagement and impact management.
PTVI acknowledges the investigation's findings and is committed to implementing an Action Plan, which includes:
- Improving stakeholder engagement and participation
- Reinforcing PTVI¡¯s Grievance Mechanism
- Reviewing past compensation payments and developing a Land Access and Compensation Framework (LACF) as well as a Land Access and Resettlement Framework (LARF) to manage physical and / or economic displacement associated with planned exploration activities
- Including the community in the independent water testing protocols and water monitoring that PTVI regularly commissions
- Strengthening its implementation strategy of the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights
The summary action plan can be found here.
PTVI is dedicated to working with all parties to ensure local community engagement is conducted in a respectful manner, adhering to local customs and international standards. Progress updates on these action items will be shared in the next PTVI Annual Sustainability Report, which will be published on the company¡¯s website in due course.
*The remaining ownership interests are divided between Sumitomo Metal Mining Co. Ltd. (¡®SMM¡¯), Indonesia¡¯s mining industry holding company PT Mineral Industri Indonesia (¡®MIND ID¡¯), and publicly shares listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange.
Last updated September 2024
Norte Energia S.A. has its own governance structure, with shareholder representation through its Board of Directors and respective advisory committees. Norte Energia¡¯s regulatory framework is composed of policies, standards, and other instruments designed to guide the decision-making process on specific matters, in accordance with the competencies of the relevant authorities, and in the best interest of the company. ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ exercises influence through Norte Energia¡¯s Board of Directors and committees, aiming to contribute to the adoption of specific processes, policies, and market best practices. In its role, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ monitors the adoption of practices related to integrity, transparency, and accountability, with a view to generating sustainable value for the organization, the environment, and society at large, while also promoting the continuous improvement of risk and impact management.
Since before the public bidding notice for the Belo Monte Hydroelectric Power Plant was launched in 2009, the project has promoted broad dialogue with society. The current configuration of the project allowed for a 58% reduction in the flooded area compared to the original proposal, thereby avoiding the inundation of Indigenous Lands.
Regarding the consensus hydrograph of the Belo Monte HPP, it is worth mentioning that the plant¡¯s Firm Energy (4,571 MW) was defined based on the average flow rates of the Xingu River (1931¨C2007), as well as the Consensus Hydrograph, which alternates annually between Hydrographs A and B, as established by the Brazilian State.
Norte Energia states that, in accordance with the agreement made with the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama), it has been exclusively applying Hydrograph B, including its full adoption throughout 2024 and the first half of 2025. The request for renewal of the project's Operating License is currently under review by the environmental agency. It is important to note that the license remains valid until Ibama issues a final decision. Within this process, the Hydrograph is considered one of the strategic topics under evaluation and is therefore also being analyzed by the competent bodies of the Federal Government. Norte Energia reports that it continues to monitor the process with technical and institutional rigor, in alignment with regulatory and socio-environmental compliance guidelines.
In the face of the challenges posed by the El Ni?o phenomenon, which significantly affected the rainfall regime in the Amazon region, the year 2024 recorded the fourth worst hydrological series in the last 91 years. The annual average inflows were 86% in 2023 and only 62% in 2024, which negatively impacted the generation of the Belo Monte HPP. This impact resulted from the combination of three main factors, which led to production below the Firm Energy: exclusive implementation of Hydrograph B, which prioritizes a greater flow to the Reduced Flow Stretch (TVR) of the Xingu River, implying lower water availability for generation at the Belo Monte HPP; annual average inflow below the historical average in 2024, accentuating the water scarcity scenario; operational restrictions in the National Interconnected System (SIN), which limited the allocation of the plant¡¯s full dispatch.
In 2025, the generation of Belo Monte has consistently stood out throughout the months, especially during periods of higher demand. In January, it was the hydroelectric plant that generated the most energy in the country, meeting 6% of national demand and reaching 12% during peak hours.
Norte Energia states on its institutional website that it has already invested around R$ 8 billion since 2011 in the implementation of the Social and Environmental Programs (PBA) of the Belo Monte HPP and its Indigenous Component (PBA-CI), with actions aimed at mitigating, compensating, and repairing the impacts of the project. These initiatives cover areas such as productive projects, sanitation, education, health, biodiversity and water management, social monitoring, with special attention to the Reduced Flow Stretch (TVR).
Norte Energia adopts high standards of socio-environmental governance, following legislation, the Equator Principles, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Standards. Audited reports are published quarterly on the company¡¯s website, and the Sustainability Report is prepared in accordance with GRI guidelines. Bulletins with operational data from the Xingu River are also published.
With a focus on active listening, Norte Energia maintains several dialogue channels with its stakeholders, among which stand out the Whistleblower Channel, the 24-Hour Belo Monte Center, the Communication Centers of Volta Grande do Xingu, and the Radio System aimed at indigenous communities in the region. It also promotes the Social Monitoring Forum of the Belo Monte HPP and specific committees with indigenous peoples, valuing the leadership of these communities.
Progress has been made in the process of restoring the livelihoods of riverside families, recognizing the complexity and sensitivity of the process. To this end, the Company maintains continuous dialogue with all parties involved, including the environmental licensing agency, the riverside dwellers themselves, the families that may be relocated to enable arable land, and the Federal Public Prosecutor¡¯s Office (MPF). In the area of food security, the monitoring of ichthyofauna and fishing stands out, with data reinforcing the importance of fish in the local diet and supporting ongoing mitigation actions. It is worth noting that studies conducted in partnership with the Federal University of Par¨¢ (UFPA) indicate that the average annual fish consumption in the Xingu River is 33 kg per person, a value 275% higher than the World Health Organization¡¯s recommendation (12 kg/year), highlighting the relevance of fish as an essential source of protein for local populations.
In the Volta Grande do Xingu, actions such as water supply systems, income generation, and technical assistance have been implemented, with continuous attention to local socio-environmental conditions and significant progress in meeting socio-environmental demands.
In the PBA-CI, Norte Energia maintains coordination with indigenous peoples and competent institutions, promoting improvements in production, health, territorial protection, and education. An important milestone was the progress in the Update of the Impact Matrix and the Revision of the PBA-CI, strengthening indigenous governance and redirecting actions to public authorities.
In summary, Norte Energia¡¯s actions are carried out responsibly, under independent monitoring and auditing, reflecting the Company¡¯s commitment to mitigating impacts and promoting the sustainable development of the region. It must be acknowledged, however, that there are challenges that require continuous improvement and interinstitutional coordination.
Beyond the commitments established within the scope of the environmental licensing process, Norte Energia, through its concession contract, allocates financial resources to projects in the Xingu region through the Xingu Regional Sustainable Development Plan (PDRSX).
The PDRSX aims to promote a total investment of R$ 500 million in projects that contribute to the sustainable regional development of the region during the period from 2010 to 2030 (concession period). These are actions that seek to contribute to and strengthen the region¡¯s socioeconomic development and the environmental protection of the Xingu basin. The PDRSX began in 2011 and, by April 2025, R$ 309 million had been invested in projects in the region.
In addition, the most recent Sustainability Report from Norte Energia highlights the company¡¯s adherence to the United Nations (UN) Global Compact; the achievement of gender parity on the Board of Directors, with six women among its members; and the publication of the 2nd Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Inventory, which, for the second consecutive year, received the Gold Seal from the Brazilian GHG Protocol Program.
For more information on Norte Energia¡¯s sustainability initiatives, visit: ()
Last updated in November 2025.
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ has no Mining Rights on Indigenous Lands in Brazil. In 2021, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ relinquished all its mining rights on Indigenous Lands in Brazil and has also given up requests for research authorizations and mining concessions. ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½'s relinquishment is based on the understanding that mining on Indigenous Lands can only be carried out with the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) of the Indigenous People themselves and based on legislation that adequately regulates the activity.
Currently, ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ develops activities in traditional territories in countries where regulations are in force, such as Canada, always in strict observance of the principles mentioned above, with emphasis on Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC).
It should be noted that the information regarding mining rights ownership available on the ANM website may be undergoing updates, which could lead to inaccurate assessments of the status and actual ownership of companies in relation to their current mining rights.
Last updated in November 2025.
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