AN ANALYSIS OF THE HISTORY OF TAILINGS DAMS AND THE BRUMADINHO AND MARIANA CATASTROPHES

Abstract

Tailings dams represent a critical facet of infrastructure in the mining industry, playing a vital role in waste management. However, the failure of these structures can result in disastrous consequences for both the environment and human communities. The collapses of the Brumadinho and Mariana dams in Brazil are tragic examples of these failures, causing significant environmental devastation and irreparable human losses. In view of the above, the study aims to analyze the history of tailings dams to identify the causes and consequences of catastrophes such as those in Brumadinho and Mariana. The methodology of this study is based on a bibliographical approach, in which an extensive and careful review of academic and technical literature related to tailings dams will be carried out. From this study, it is clear that the regulation of tailings dams is a multifaceted situation that requires a delicate balance between several factors, including technical needs, ecological concerns and social responsibilities.