Massive compensation claim over Nordic Waste landslide headed for Supreme Court

A legal expert predicts Denmark’s Supreme Court will ultimately decide a landmark case over liability for the 2023 Nordic Waste landslide near Randers, as state and municipal authorities pursue a DKK 450 million compensation claim against the company’s former management.

Frederik Waage, professor of administrative law at the University of Southern Denmark, calls the case highly principled, noting it will test the boundaries of corporate, municipal, and environmental responsibility. The landslide displaced millions of cubic metres of contaminated soil, threatening the village of Ølst.

Randers Municipality has spent up to DKK 400 million on mitigation and cleanup since the December 2023 disaster. Both the municipality and the Environmental Protection Agency have filed claims against the bankrupt estates of Nordic Waste and DSH Recycling, which owned the site. The government has provided financial guarantees to cover legal costs, as the estates lack sufficient assets.

Waage highlights the case’s complexity, as prior investigations have criticised Nordic Waste, Randers Municipality, and the Environmental Protection Agency. He expects the former management to argue that authorities share responsibility, a question the court will have to resolve.

The former leadership of Nordic Waste and DSH Recycling maintains it complied with all environmental permits and regulatory conditions, denying liability for the landslide. They have stated they welcome the opportunity to present their case in court.