Portuguese 
English 
Spanish 
4 min of reading 
0 comments 
TJMG Releases Progress of Anglo American’s Dam in MG and Resumes Environmental Licensing, Rekindling Debate on Impacts.
The decision to resume the environmental licensing of the dam of the Anglo American, made this Friday (12/05/2025) by the Minas Gerais Court of Justice, changes the course of the process that has been stalled since August.
Judge Edilson Olímpio authorized the mining company to proceed with the feasibility analysis of the project, which is part of the Minas-Rio System and is located in Conceição do Mato Dentro, in the Central region of Minas.
The measure was taken because, according to the magistrate, it was necessary to reassess the extent of the impacts and the continuity of operations in the region.
-
The section of Serra da Rocinha on BR-285 is now open in Timbé do Sul: 50 m tensioned curtains and top-down technique stabilize the slope, with a stairway duct controlling the water.
-
Scientists use sawdust mixed with clay to create a lighter brick, promising efficient thermal insulation and impressing by transforming waste into a solution for construction.
-
With a DNA shape, this bridge in Singapore draws attention in modern architecture and surprises tourists by transforming a simple crossing into an unforgettable visual experience in the urban heart.
-
Giant underwater pipeline begins to take shape with a R$ 134.7 million project at the Port of Santos: the 1.7 km structure uses 12-meter and 700 mm pipes to supply water to 450,000 people in Guarujá.
The resumption involves the Preliminary License (LP), the initial stage of the environmental licensing process that evaluates location, project characteristics, and potential risks.
The project refers to the second elevation of the dam, considered by the company essential to sustain the final construction of the planned capacity since 2008.
Licensing Had Been Suspended Since August Due to Risk to the Local Community
The judicial impasse began in August when the Minas Gerais State Court of Accounts (TCE-MG) decided to suspend the licensing unanimously.
The interruption occurred due to concerns related to the safety of the traditional community of São José do Arrudas, which lives in the so-called Self-Salvation Zone (ZAS) — the most critical area in case of dam failure.
The measure was based on State Law No. 23,291/2019, known as Never Again Sea of Mud, created after the tragedies in Mariana and Brumadinho.
According to councilor Agostinho Patrus, author of the decision, the process could only advance after the prior resettlement of families and full compliance with legal requirements.
At the time, Anglo American stated it would evaluate the decision and emphasized it had an ongoing Resettlement Plan, with relocation expected by 2028.
Anglo American Argues That Project Is Essential for Maintaining Jobs and Revenue
With the TJMG’s decision, the company confirmed it is once again authorized to proceed with the environmental licensing and the dam’s feasibility process.
In a statement, the mining company emphasized that the second elevation in Conceição do Mato Dentro and Alvorada de Minas is essential for maintaining the operation of the Minas-Rio System.
The company claims that the construction is vital not only for the continuity of operations but also for maintaining jobs and ensuring tax revenue that supports the region’s economic activities.
Additionally, it points out that the project contributes to the development of neighboring communities.
The mining company also highlighted:
“The process is in line with the original project of the enterprise, since 2008, and corresponds to the completion stage of the planned capacity for the structure. Anglo American remains in constant dialogue with the government, local communities, and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with all licensing requirements.”
Understand the Key Points of the Impasse
The clash between public bodies and the mining company involved two central axes:
1. Safety of the Arrudas Community
Families live in an area considered high risk in case of a breach.
For this reason, TCE-MG understood that the environmental licensing would be illegal while resettlement had not been completed.
2. Requirements of the Never Again Sea of Mud Law
The legislation imposes stricter rules for the construction and elevation of dams in Minas Gerais.
It requires that vulnerable communities be protected and resettled before any technical or administrative progress.
Parliamentarians Criticize the Release of Licensing
The TJMG’s decision generated strong political repercussions, particularly among parliamentarians active in the socio-environmental agenda.
Federal Deputy Duda Salabert (PDT) described the measure as a setback. On her social media, she stated:
“Today, TJMG overturned the suspension of the licensing of the Anglo American dam in Conceição do Mato Dentro, ignoring socio-environmental risks and the ‘Never Again Sea of Mud’ law. A space of justice practicing injustice.”
Councilwoman Bella Gonçalves (PSOL) also made strong criticisms:
“They disregard the Never Again Sea of Mud Law to give a free pass for the Government to license the expansion of an Anglo American dam on top of the Quilombola Community of Arrudas.”
-
-
-
-
-
10 pessoas reagiram a isso.