Red mud could prompt chemical rule review

The alumina waste sludge accident in Hungary shows that the the European Union needs to be more effective in its enforcement of legislation on waste containing dangerous chemicals, according to environmental lawyers.

Nine people were killed and over a hundred injured after a dyke around an alumina waste pond belonging to MAL Magyar Alumínium near Ajka burst on 4 October. Around 600,000-700,000m³ of highly alkaline red mud spread across 1000ha into nearby villages and rivers, eventually running into the Danube.  More...

http://www.rsc.org/chemistryworld/News/2010/October/18101001.asp