Lessons learnt from the Sgorigrad and Stava disasters

The catastrophic failures of tailings dams at Sgorigrad (Bulgaria) and Stava (Italy) are analyzed, pinpointing the many similarities of the two cases. A description is given about the shortcomings in the construction of these geotechnical structures and the causes of their collapse. Further information is provided about the lessons learnt from these disasters and the activities carried out to keep memory alive and qualify young engineers and geologists on the proper and safe management of tailings dams