Real-life Brokovich lifts cudgels against mining giant Down Under

US environment campaigner Erin Brockovich will study a case filed by West Australian residents against the mining concern, Alcoa, which has its alumina refinery in the country.

Sydney, Aug 6 : US environment campaigner Erin Brockovich will study a case filed by West Australian residents against the mining concern, Alcoa, which has its alumina refinery in the country.

For about 11 years, Yarloop dwellers have complained of respiratory problems, skin irritation, sore throats and eyes, extreme fatigue, mental dysfunction, stomach upset, blood noses, cancers and organ failure.

Now, Brockovich, who was portrayed by Julia Roberts in a film about her campaign against a Californian company, will examine the case for the residents.

"We think we live in a big world, but it's really smaller than you think. Somebody from the area that was sick, from what they believe to be Alcoa, e-mailed me. I was intrigued with her illnesses and concerned at what she was suffering through, and recommended one of our toxicologists see her and he did," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Brockovich, as saying.

"After he did some testing and researching he said 'this is something you should look into,'" she added.

The company has defended the Wagerup refinery, saying that it meets health and environment standards and would not have a problem revealing scientific information to Brokovich

"Wagerup refinery meets the most stringent health and environmental standards in the world and will continue to do so when expanded," the company said in a statement.

"Alcoa has nothing to hide and will continue to take a transparent and responsible approach to the public release of scientific information about the refinery," it added

"As it has done with the community and other stakeholders, Alcoa is happy to brief Ms Brockovich on any matters that may be of interest to her," it said.

ANI