When Marcopper started mining copper on Marinduque Island in the Philippines four decades ago, local communities could not have predicted the devastation it would bring. For more than 20 years, Marcopper dumped millions of tonnes of toxic mine waste into Marinduque’s seas and polluted its rivers. As a result, people have lost their health, livelihoods and some have even lost their lives. The photos above document their experiences.

Oxfam Australia has been working for years lobbying Australian mining companies, financial institutions and the Australian government to make sure people come before profits. Read more about our work.