A Dutch nonprofit is seeking $1.4 billion ($1.6 billion) in compensation from Tata Steel’s Netherlands units, alleging that harmful emissions from its operations have caused environmental damage and health damage to nearby residents.
According to a statement from Tata Steel on Friday, the plaintiffs filed legal papers in North Holland District Court in Haarlem. The claim targets the company’s operations in the coastal village of Velsen Nord, seeking compensation from residents for increased susceptibility to health problems and reduced property values.
The case has added to the growing scrutiny on Tata Steel’s European operations for their environmental impact. Dutch regulators stepped up pressure on the company in 2024, threatening fines of around €27 million and warning that they would close the coke plant in the port city of IJMUIDEN if toxic emissions were not sufficiently reduced. In 2022, Dutch prosecutors began an investigation into whether the company and one of its partners had intentionally contaminated soil, air and water with hazardous substances.
Tata Steel said it was examining the documents and had “strong arguments” to defend its position. The company said the proceedings under the collective actions are being conducted in two phases, each taking two to three years to conclude.
In September, Tata Steel announced plans for a $6.5 billion project to reduce emissions at its Netherlands operations, with the Dutch state contributing up to $2 billion.
Photo: Emissions from the coke and gas plant at the Tata Steel Ltd plant in Ajmeowden, Netherlands. Photo credit: Peter Boyer/Bloomberg
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