In 2021, Cainquiama, an association based in Barcarena, Brazil, and nine Brazilian individuals filed a lawsuit in the Netherlands against Hydro's Dutch entities and Norsk Hydro ASA. The plaintiffs seek compensation for alleged health impact and financial damages resulting from industrial activities in the municipality of Barcarena, including alleged environmental harm following heavy rainfall in the region in February 2018.
The lawsuit brought before the Dutch court overlaps with claims already presented to the Brazilian courts. The Rotterdam court held initial hearings in 2022 and 2023, and decided to proceed to a hearing on the merits on March 12, 2025.
Hydro strongly rejects the allegations brought forward by the claimants with a legal and technical defense in the Rotterdam district court. Expert reports based on extensive empirical data show the allegations made by the plaintiffs are unfounded.
Studies based on publicly available health data show health patterns in the Barcarena area are comparable to those observed in control municipalities, including Para state and Brazil as a whole. Hydro demonstrated to the court that the case lacks both technical and legal merit and should be dismissed.
The proceedings are expected to continue with a ruling from the lower Rotterdam court later in 2025.
Alunorte’s and Albras’ activities in the Barcarena region are duly licensed, and operations at the plants are monitored and audited by the competent authorities and independent entities. Hydro is committed to being a good neighbor, acting responsibly and putting health, environment, and safety first wherever it operates.
Published: March 12, 2025
