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Dead River

Dead River

Written by: Dead River
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Dead River is the story of Brazil's worst environmental disaster — the Mariana dam collapse — that claimed the lives of 19 people. This isn't just a tale about the tragedy itself; it's a narrative that resonates with the pursuit of happiness, the impact of greed, and the overnight disappearance of centuries-old traditions. Hosted by biologist and wildlife broadcaster Liz Bonnin, this six-part series explores the profound connection people share with the land along the River Doce — a connection shattered by the tragic events of the Mariana dam collapse. As we hear about the aftermath, we encounter heroes and villains, witnessing the resilience of communities torn apart. Liz Bonnin uncovers the intricate threads of belonging, the devastating consequences of deception, and the ongoing pursuit of justice eight years after the catastrophe.



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Dead River Political Science Politics & Government Social Sciences True Crime
Episodes
  • 6. A Silent War

    6. A Silent War
    Mar 25 2024

    In the powerful conclusion of Dead River, the echoes of centuries past reverberate in the struggle of indigenous people against government and multinational giants. In Episode 6 Liz Bonnin delves into the history of mining's arrival in Brazil and the enduring fight for land rights, autonomy, and sovereignty. Can mining coexist harmoniously with indigenous communities? Are mining companies irredeemable villains, or can they become forces for good? Will this tale find a fairytale ending, and how much longer will the people of Brazil be forced to wait for justice?



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    51 mins
  • 5. Dead River

    5. Dead River
    Mar 18 2024
    In 2015, after the Mariana dam collapse, biologist Luciano Magalhães declared that the River Doce was dead. In episode 5, Liz Bonnin explores the effect that high levels of toxic metals, thousands of pounds of species die off, and millions of tons of toxic waste have on the River Doce and the residents that rely on it. We hear from people who were forced to leave their homes because they lost their jobs, people whose loved ones they believe died from the effects of the contaminated water, and indigenous leaders who have watched their community suffer unbearable grief and physical illness for years following the collapse. What have the companies involved done to mitigate these risks, and how, if ever, can a river be brought back to life?

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    46 mins
  • 4. The Case of 700,000

    4. The Case of 700,000
    Mar 11 2024
    Some might say that for the mining giants involved in the Mariana dam collapse, this isn’t just a story about human lives, it’s also a story about the bottom line. BHP and Vale are two of the biggest mining companies in the world, with net worths rivalling nations, and for years, setbacks in the Brazilian justice system have created a struggle to hold these large companies accountable for the destruction the collapse of the dam they own caused. But in 2019, Pogust Goodhead, a London-based global law firm, decided to challenge the status quo of what it means to hold multinational corporations to account. This is the rollercoaster story of how a small law firm fronted by one man grew to represent 700,000 victims in the largest ever class action lawsuit brought in English courts.

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    45 mins
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