Baudenbacher Kvernberg is representing victims in what may turn out to be one of the largest environmental pollution scandals in Norwegian history.

The municipality of Stranda in central Norway has been operating a garbage storage facility on our client’s land for over three decades. The disposal site is located adjacent to the Fursetelva creek which runs into the Storelva river, an important fish breeding ground particularly for salmon. Countless adjacent communities source their ground water from the Fursetelva creek and/or the Storelva river.

The municipality has been aware that highly toxic waste has been leaking from the facility into the surrounding land and ground water for decades. A report from 2005 found traces of barium, chromium, nickel, zinc, BTEX (mixtures of benzene, toluene, and the three xylene isomers—highly carcinogenic and with liver and renal toxicity), chlorinated phenols, and mineral oil in the leaking water. Sediment in the streams contained lead, nickel, copper, arsenic, and mercury, along with dioxins and brominated flame retardants. Analyses found a concentration of 70% of these substances; a concentration of 5% is widely considered as toxic. Although immediate action was demanded and individuals repeatedly followed up with the municipality, the latter remained largely passive.

The contamination of the ground water has had a direct impact on the people living in the area. Our client is currently receiving treatment for heavy metal poisoning, including mercury, quicksilver, strontium, lead, and aluminium. We are also investigating further claims by individuals living in the area.

If you or a loved one were exposed to contaminated water in Stranda municiplaity, speak with one of our experienced attorneys at Baudenbacher Kvernberg to discuss your legal options.