A wave of mud: the travel of toxic water, from Bento Rodrigues to the Brazilian Atlantic

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article offers an anthropological examination of the aftermath of the Samarco dam disaster of November 2015. We analyze the widely used metaphor of the wave of mud to track how news, experience, and representation of toxic iron ore tailings water traveled from Bento Rodrigues down the Doce River to the coast. We draw on eyewitness testimonials, on scientific reports, on social media, on documentary films, and on a theatre production. We draw on sociological research conducted by a team at the Brazilian coast. The wave of mud image helps us understand the physical and symbolic effects of this environmental disaster and crime.

Keywords

• Environmental crime
• wave of mud
• material and symbolic forces