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Innovation, Curiosities and People.
Learn more about the evolution of the Vale brand and find out how our collection was born and
is maintained today.
Purchase of Canadian mining company Inco
In 2006, Vale purchased the Canadian mining company Inco. This moment was decisive for the
diversification of its product portfolio and it is also considered the greatest advance
towards the internationalization of its operations.
In the image it is possible to see the items in our collection related to this purchase,
with indications of the transaction values.
Jornal da Vale
For 35 years, Jornal da Vale is the company's main printed vehicle. The publication, which
had its first edition launched in 1974 and circulated until the beginning of 2009, featured
the main events of the mining company, interviews
and highlighted facts.
Fundraising for Companhia Estrada de Ferro Vitória a Minas
On May 13, 1904, the Companhia Estrada de Ferro Vitória a Minas operates for the first time
and, today, it is one of the few Brazilian railways to maintain continuous passenger
transport - which is of great tourist importance in
the region.
The image shows an original document in French, English and Portuguese, dated March 15, 1906,
which refers to the raising of external resources for the Company.
Transport of ore by rail is authorized
In 1909, the company requested to change the original layout of the railway. The order is
granted and the company also gains a monopoly on operations in the region, with the proviso
that it will build a steel plant there.
Foundation of Companhia Itabira de Mineração
Original document of the Minutes of the Constitution of Companhia Itabira de Mineração held
on January 8, 1942.
Original document of March 12, 1942 in which Companhia Itabira de Mineração asks the Minister
of Agriculture for authorization to work as a mining company.
Israel Pinheiro's act marks the beginning of Vale
During Vale's first year, Israel Pinheiro, an engineer who later became the company's
president, was appointed superintendent. In his first act, Pinheiro borrowed a pair of
scissors, cut off his shirt sleeve and said: "Now, get
to work." This act marks the beginning of the history of Companhia Vale do Rio Doce, which,
as a newborn, already carried the trajectory of mining in Brazil.
The first engineer
In the book Histórias da Vale he reports that his father-in-law was a friend of the then
president of the company, Israel Pinheiro. Upon learning of its creation, he asked for a
“teaspoon” not to do military service.
A milestone for the advance of exports
The construction of the Port of Tubarão is a milestone for expanding Vale's exports and
motivating a leap in world navigation. The undertaking was so monumental that Ronny Lyrio,
former director of Itabira International questioned
the former president of the Vale, Eliezer Batista: "But, Eliezer, there is no ship of one
hundred thousand tons, this one is under construction and will only be ready in two years,
and we will make a port for one hundred thousand
tons?
Carajás: the discovery
The team was also formed by the geologists and pioneers Erasto de Almeida and João Ritter.
The idea was to look for manganese, but what was found there changed Vale's history - the
region was covered by iron ore. “We already knew
that there was iron there, but we were looking for manganese and, in this transaction,
Carajás appears. There is nothing like it in the world in terms of reserves and quality of
iron ore, said Newton Rezende, former president
of Valesul, in an interview for the book Histórias da Vale.
O autógrafo de Drummond
Em forma de agradecimento, o poeta enviou uma mensagem à Vale. Mais do que o elogio, o
veículo ganha um autógrafo de Carlos Drummond de Andrade, cujo a carta foi publicada na
edição seguinte.
Vale Zoo and Botanical Park is created
At the facility, approximately 360 animals are cared for. The PZV is located within the
National Forest of Carajás, in Pará, in a Federal Conservation Unit.
A visit from British royalty
The purpose of the visit was to show the Carajás iron ore operation up close. In addition,
the royal couple planted a chestnut tree seedling in the Zoobotanic Park. In December 2019,
the first fruit of the Brazil nut tree (Bertholletia
excelsa Bonpl.), Planted by them during the visit, was observed.
Beginning of a partnership with China
The testimony of lawyer Rony Lyrio, director of Itabira International Company at the time,
presents a curious fact about the first shipment of ore to China in 1973: Lyrio tried to
speak to John Rothschild, an American negotiator
who brokered the sale for China, but he didn't answer the phone. Until 6:01 pm that
Saturday, Rothschild called to say the operation had worked. The delay was explained by
Shabbat, the Jewish holy day: between 6pm on Friday
and 6pm on Saturday, Rothschild would retire to dedicate himself to prayers as mandated by
Jewish tradition. "We can say that Vale's first entry into China was made from New York, via
a trader who did not attend Saturdays",
summarized Lyrio.
Brasil Imortal Award
Chosen by popular vote on the internet, the winners had their names perpetuated in the
scientific nomenclature of unprecedented botanical species discovered in the Vale Natural
Reserve, in Espírito Santo.
Valemax: Giant of the seas
In addition to being the most efficient ships in the world, they carry a much larger load
than other models on the market - up to 400 thousand tons. As of 2018, the company's fleet
of ships started to rely on second generation
VLOC mineral vessels, Guaibamaxes and Valemaxes. The new generation emits 41% less
greenhouse gases than standard ships for transporting ore, with a loading capacity of 180
thousand tons. Our special book tells about the vessel's
timeline and construction process.
A new wave for mining
Vale has developed technologies that have enabled the use of poorer ores - compact itabirite
with an iron content of up to 40%. In short, what was rejected becomes a product. Thus, Vale
increased the useful life of some mines,
expanded its production capacity and entered the “third wave” of mining.
Autonomous mine
Controlled only by computer systems, GPS, radars and artificial intelligence, autonomous
trucks move efficiently between the mine front and the unloading area. What sounds like a
futuristic film comes true at the Brucutu mine in
Minas Gerais.
100% electric locomotive
The locomotive should operate in the yard of the Vitória a Minas Railway, at the Tubarão
Unit, in Vitória.
This is a fundamental step that is in line with our goals of moving towards a more
sustainable and carbon-free future.
Our actions in the pandemic
In this sense, we donate quick test kits and PPE, assist in the construction and renovation
of field hospitals, purchase hospital equipment and help our suppliers maintain financial
health, among other actions.
ITV: science in search of answers
The Instituto Tecnológico Vale also has extensive activities in research in the Amazon,
ranging from climate change to relations with biodiversity.
"Carajás was a dream with eyes wide open"
“Carajás was a dream with open eyes”, says Eliezer Batista in his book Conversations with
Eliezer. And to put into operation a decisive undertaking for transforming Vale into one of
the largest mining companies in the world, a
lot of work was needed.
To transport the high-quality iron ore from the Carajás mines, we built all the logistics. In
1985 the Carajás Railway was inaugurated, a railroad responsible for taking the ore to the
Ponta da Madeira Maritime Terminal, in Maranhão,
which is also built and starts operating in 1986.
At 3:00 pm on January 6, 1986, a Monday, the Docepolo ship that sailed carrying tons of iron
ore to Japan was lost sight of in São Marcos Bay. The mine-railroad-port circuit of the then
“Ferro Carajás Project” was officially complete.
Commitment to Sustainability
To reinforce our commitment to sustainability, in 2019, we assumed ambitious goals.
In line with the best sustainability practices, we reinforced our pact with society: in 2020,
we announced investments of at least US $ 2 billion to reduce the company's carbon emissions
by 33% by 2030.
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A story that happens every day
The history of a company is the portrait of its
experience, its experience, its learnings, "stories" told by people, individual
memories, the dreams of those who made and are part of its trajectory.
In Vale's case, its memories are directly linked to
the development of mining in Brazil, its flight to the international market and the
search for an increasingly prosperous, technological and sustainable future. The
History Center is an initiative that aims to gather, organize, preserve and
disseminate our history, present both in documents and in people's memories.
In this virtual space, you will discover items that
are part of our collection and that marked Vale's path. With the preservation of our
cultural heritage, we intend to promote dialogue with society and transform the
company into a source of knowledge and learning.
The starting point
A panorama of downtown Itabira (MG), in 1899. Photo: Vale Agency
1904
1st EFVM Locomotive. Reproduction: Marcele Oliveira
EFVM's first locomotives
Vale's trajectory begins before its official birth. We can say that the railway is a
starting point.
The history of locomotives in Brazil begins in the middle of the 19th century, more
precisely in 1852. The sepia-toned photograph records a train driver beside one of the
first locomotives on the Estrada de Ferro Vitória a
Minas (Vitória a Minas Railway), manufactured in 1904.
Fundraising for Companhia Estrada de Ferro Vitória a Minas
Learn more
Reproduction: Marcele Oliveira
Estrada de Ferro Vitória a Minas during the 1920s. Photo: National Archive
Transport of ore by rail is authorized
In 1908, the extension of the Itabira iron ore deposits was reported: two English
engineers consulted the Companhia Estrada de Ferro Vitória a Minas (CEFVM) to find out
about the possibility of transporting ore through it.
With a favorable opinion, they organize the Brazilian Hematite Syndicate.
Learn more
Man working in iron foundry in the 1940s. Photo: Peter Lange / CPDOC / FGV
Itabira Iron Ore is created
In order to replace Brazilian Hematite, in 1911 the Itabira Iron Ore Company is
organized, which receives authorization from the Brazilian government to operate.
Itabira Iron Ore was headquartered in London and maintained a representative in Brazil.
Its objective was to acquire, explore, develop, work and take advantage of properties,
ore deposits, in Itabira.
Nationalization of mineral reserves
Panoramic view of the city of Itabira (MG), in the 1950s. Photo: Jean Manzon
During the Vargas Government, the president emphasized the need to nationalize mineral
reserves. After many opinions, in 1939 the Itabira Iron Ore contract is declared
expired, it loses the federal and state concessions that
it held, but according to the Mines Code it still owns the lands and iron mines of
Itabira.
Mine facilities in the Pico do Cauê region, in Itabira (MG). Foto: National
Library Foundation
Foundation of Companhia Brasileira de Mineração e Siderurgia
In August 1939, Percival Farquhar, an American businessman, owner of Itabira Iron
Ore, and six other Brazilians, founded the Companhia Brasileira de Mineração e
Siderurgia. The company obtains operating authorization, in
addition to the permission to incorporate Companhia Estrada de Ferro Vitória a
Minas.
First shipment of iron ore at the Vitória Port (ES), on the Greek ship Modesta,
in June 1940. Photo: Mazzei
Foundation of Companhia Itabira de Mineração
In 1941, a group of business partners of Percival Farquhar founded Companhia Itabira
de Mineração, with the objective of exploring the mines of Itabira Iron Ore.
Learn more
Washington Agreements
Iron ore being unloaded from trucks at Vitória Port in the early 1940s. Photo
Erich Hess
In 1942, the Washington Accords oblige the British government to acquire and transfer to
the Brazilian government the iron ore deposits belonging to Itabira Iron Ore.
Official Gazette: Vale is created
In June 1942, a decree-law by Getúlio Vargas sets the basis for how Companhia Vale do Rio
Doce would be organized, which would take over Companhia Brasileira de Mineração e
Siderurgia and Companhia Itabira de Mineração. In
the text, it is possible to identify the legal procedures necessary for the act, such as
payments and indemnities. This is the moment when Vale also inherits the pre-existing
Estrada de Ferro Vitória a Minas.
Diário Oficial 02/06/1942 Reproduction: Marcele Oliveira
View of Cauê Mine in full swing, in 1943, in Itabira (MG). Photo: Erich Hess
Created to last 50 years
Document dated 1942 that brings the manifesto, decrees and statutes of the creation
of Companhia Vale do Rio Doce. The document is curious that Vale, a newborn, had a
pre-established 50-year term.
Mineral wealth is now from Brazil
Charcoal being loaded into straw baskets for the railroad cars, probably on the banks
of the Doce River. Photo: Jean Manzon
With the creation of CVRD, Brazil definitively obtains possession of a railroad of the
highest importance and port facilities for loading ore, in addition to a substantial portion
of mineral wealth.
“Now, hands on”
Israel Pinheiro's act marks the beginning of Vale
Learn more
The president of Companhia Vale do Rio Doce (CVRD), Israel Pinheiro (in a white suit),
and delegation visit the Atalaia ore wharf at Vitória Port (ES).
Photo: Mazzei
The first engineer
Carlos Nunes de Lima (standing in the left corner of the photo) is officially Vale's
first engineer, admitted on June 26, 1942, just 25 days after the mining company was
created.
Learn more
Team photo of the Valeriodoce E. Clube soccer club, in the 1940s. Photo:
Carlos Nunes de Lima Collection
First shipment of the ore
In 1942, the year in which Vale was created, the Second World War is a reality. The
Americans were looking for raw materials for the production of armaments and iron
ore was essential, which consequently helped the purchase
process. However, the first shipment of ore removed from Itabira ended at the
bottom of the sea: the English ship SS Baron Napier was attacked by
Germans after its departure in July of the same year. The
lost load was 5.7 thousand tons.
Here, you see original documents of the first shipment and the Jornal da Vale of
November 1975 presents a copy of other documents of the shipment of the ore, on July
27, 1942. A curiosity is that the transport insurance
covered losses caused by the 'enemies of the King', that is, pirates!
Reproduction: Marcele Oliveira
Minutes of the CVRD Constitution Assembly. Reproduction: Marcele Oliveira
Minutes of the CVRD Constitution Assembly
Original document of the Minutes of the Definitive Constitution of the Public Limited
Company CVRD, dated January 11, 1943, carries the list with the handwritten signature of
each of the shareholders present.
Public Deed of Donation
Original document of the Public Deed of Donation of Itabira Iron Ore Company Limited
to the Federal Government, dated January 8, 1943, officializes the donation of
deposits that were found in thirteen properties in Itabira.
Public Deed of Donation. Reproduction: Marcele Oliveira
1942
Reproduction: Marcele Oliveira
A gift to Getúlio Vargas?
Dated 1944, the album was supposedly offered to the then President of the Republic of
the United States of Brazil, Getúlio Vargas. The present was a form of homage,
since, at that time, Itabira was called Presidente Vargas
- in fact, this is one of the curiosities that surrounds the album, which can
be accessed in its entirety in our know more.
Learn more
Railroad cars and trains in the 1950s
CEFVM´s Set of Photos. Reproduction: Marcele Oliveira
The set of 25 original photographs shows the various Railroad cars and trains of railway
vehicles on the Estrada de Ferro Vitória a Minas in 1950.
CEFVM´s Set of Photos.
Reproduction: Marcele Oliveira.
1956
IBGE illustrative photo of theTio de Janeiro Stock Exchange. Photo: Gilson
Vale's first shares are auctioned on the stock exchange
On October 25, 1956, the first 716 CVRD shares were auctioned on the Rio de Janeiro Stock
Exchange
Vitória, Espírito Santo (ES), Brazil, 1966 - Aerial view of construction work on
the Tubarão Port Complex. Photo: Correio da Manhã / National Archives
A milestone for the advance of exports
For the company to advance on the world stage, it was necessary to be able to export
more. To this end, on April 1, 1966, the Port of Tubarão is opened in Vitória,
Espírito Santo.
Learn more
Carajás: the discovery
Pará, Brazil, 09/17/1967, Geologist Breno dos Santos - Geologist Breno dos Santos who
worked for Companhia Meridional de Mineração participated in the search for minerals
in the North of the country. Foto: Breno Augusto
dos Santos Collection
On July 31, 1967, geologist Breno Augusto dos Santos makes a landing in a clearing in
southeastern Pará to supply. Breno was chief of staff for geologists at US Steel, an
American steelmaker, which was looking for manganese in
the region for its mills in the United States.
Learn more
CVRD gains a logo
In August 1975, Jornal da Vale highlights the launch of the new logo of the then
Companhia Vale do Rio Doce - idealized by Desenho Ltda. The version was the winner of a
competition instituted to standardize the company's visual
communication.
Vale Natural Reserve is founded
Vale Natural Reserve. Photo: Ricardo Teles
The Vale Natural Reserve was founded in 1951, at a time when the concern with the
preservation of the environment was little disseminated. In 1978, RNV became an area
officially dedicated to conservation and scientific research.
Today, the Reserve preserves a unique area of Atlantic Forest practically intact in
Linhares, in Espírito Santo. There are about 23 thousand hectares - equivalent to the
size of 23 thousand soccer fields.
Drummond's autograph
In the edition of nº 85 of Jornal da Vale, a report is published about Itabira's
birthday, in Minas Gerais. The cover featured one of Drummond's most famous
poems, “Sentimento do mundo” (Feeling of the world) and the
story used to rescue Itabira from the past.
As a thank you, the poet sent a message to Vale. More than praise, the vehicle
receives an autograph from Carlos Drummond de Andrade, whose letter was
published in the following edition.
"Carajás was a dream with eyes wide open"
Learn more
Vale Zoo and Botanical Park is created
Brazilian species of eagle - Harpia Foto: Ricardo Teles
Created in 1985, the Vale Zoo and Botanical Park covers an area of 30 hectares and allows the
free movement of species of birds, agoutis and monkeys in their areas of visitation -
which allows a unique experience of immersion in the
Amazon rainforest.
Learn more
A visit from British royalty
Prince Charles and Princess Diana in Carajás. Photo: Marcelo Carnaval
On April 23, 1991, the Prince and Princess of Wales, Charles and Diana, landed in Carajás,
Pará. They are welcomed by students and residents when visiting the complex's residential
core.
Learn more
Commemorative book - 50 years of history
Vale publishes a book with a history of the company on its 50th anniversary.
1997
Privatization of Vale. Photo: Marcelo Carnaval
Vale is privatized
On May 6, 1997, a hammer is beaten and Vale is privatized
Vale continued to expand its international business and took the first step to start
exports to China, today the company's main customer.
Learn more
Developing talent in music
Music is capable of awakening the deepest feelings in each of us. That is why, since the
2000s, the Vale Música Program has created opportunities for students to participate in
musical training and develop their talents.
Watch the movie and find out more about Vale Música.
Original Listing / Companhia Vale do Rio Doce / Rio / 2000. Reproduction:
Marcele Oliveira
Vale arrives at the New York Stock Exchange
In the early 2000s, Vale started to have its shares listed on the New York Stock
Exchange. The New York Stock Exchange is considered one of the most famous financial
institutions in the United States.
60 years: a story told by people
In celebration of Vale's 60th anniversary, a book is published
with photos, testimonials and exclusive stories about the mining company's
trajectory.
Sossego Mine operates
In 2004, Vale inaugurates the Sossego Mine, the company's first copper operation.
Vale Botanical Park. Photo: Vitor Nogueira
Stimulating living with nature
The Botanical Park began its activities in May 2004 and is part of Vale's Green Belt
in Vitória, Espírito Santo. The space of 33 hectares of Atlantic Forest is aimed at
leisure and encouragement of living with nature.
It is possible to observe more than 140 species of trees in addition to migratory
birds, otters, reptiles and alligators of yellow crop.
Facade of the House of Culture. Photo: Paulo Moreira
Valuing culture
Vale is an advocate and promoter of the engagement of local culture in its
operations. The House of Culture of Canãa dos Carajás is inaugurated in 2004.
The space aims to enable encounters, thoughts and creations. It is an invitation for
visitors to socialize, share experiences and learn together.
2006
São Gonçalo do Rio Abaixo, Minas Gerais (MG), Brazil, 08/27/2016 - Brucutu Mine.
Photo: Ricardo Teles
Largest iron ore mine in Minas Gerais starts operating
The Brucutu mine, located in São Gonçalo do Rio Below, Minas Gerais, goes into operation
in 2006. At the time of the inauguration, the mine / plant complex was considered the
largest in initial production capacity deployed
in the world. The unit is the largest iron ore mine in Minas Gerais in production.
Purchase of Canadian mining company Inco
Learn more
Companhia Vale do Rio Doce has acquired Inco. Reproduction: Marcele Oliveira
A new brand for a new Vale
With the purchase of Inco and the advancement of our operations in other countries, we
need to consolidate our image as a global company. Then, in 2007, a name emerges, a new brand. Vale.
The decision took into account the strength, simplicity and sound of the name Vale,
which is used in several languages.
Suspension of sale to pig iron makers
Vale suspends the supply of iron ore to pig iron producers that violate labor and
environmental legislation in Brazil.
Brazilian Immortal Awards - Commemorative Stamps. Photo: Vale Agency
Brasil Imortal Award
The Brazilian Immortal Award was created in 2008 to enhance the performance of
citizens who contribute to the preservation of natural wealth and the development of
the country's communities.
Learn more
2009
Windfences in Tubarão
Throughout the construction of our history, we continue to learn and seek alternatives
that are increasingly sustainable for our business. In 2009, wind barriers, or
windfences, are installed in the Tubarão Complex, in Espírito
Santo. The metallic structures, which have a screen attached, surround the main storage
yards and aim to reduce the emission of dust.
Each barrier is one and a half times the height of the stockpiled product, varying
between 19 and 30 meters in height. The structure was the first in Latin America and
Vale.
Open Letter to Brazil on Climate Change
Seedling Planting. Photo: Leo Drumond / Agência Nitro
National Forest (Flona) of Tapirapé-Aquiri and Itacaiúnas River. Photo: Ricardo
Teles
Twenty-two private entities and companies with Brazilian capital launched, in 2009, an
open letter to Brazil on climate change, presenting their voluntary commitments to
reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The letter is
a milestone because, for the first time, businessmen in the country's productive sector
formally present initiatives to combat global warming.
2009
Brazilian Immortal Awards - Young Illustrators. Photo: Vale Agency
Young Illustrators
Young Illustrators Project seeks to awaken artistic skills, disseminate concepts of
environmental education and botanical knowledge among young people. The botanical
illustration workshops, which took place in 2009, involved
two thousand young people and public school teachers in 17 Brazilian cities. Six young
people and a teacher were selected to illustrate stamps of species chosen for the second
edition of the Brazilian Immortal Award.
Vale Memorial Minas Gerais. Photo: Marcelo Coelho
Museum of experiences
A “museum of experiences”. This is the best expression to describe the Memorial Minas
Gerais Vale, located in Belo Horizonte. The space presents the history, culture and
traditions of Minas Gerais through provocations in the
exhibition content, promoting dialogue with the most diverse visiting audiences.
Inaugurated in 2010, the museum occupies the building where the State Secretariat of
Finance functioned, listed by the State Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage of
Minas Gerais ─ IEPHA MG, the building dates back
to 1897.
Valemax: Giant of the seas
Valemax is a giant in every sense of the word: the model, specially built to
transport ore, which came to be used by Vale in 2011, is 362 meters long and over 30
meters high.
Learn more
70 years of a living Vale
The research on Vale's 70 years was essential for the survey and organization of historical
items that contributed to the production of the book, “Nossa História”, and for the launch of the medium-length film
that took the same title. The film, which featured 165 respondents from 10 countries, won a
Golden Dolphin at the 2012 Cannes Corporate
Award.
Root in the Historic Center
Vale Maranhão Cultural Center. Photo: Ricardo Teles
Inaugurated in 2014, the Vale Maranhão Cultural Center takes root in the historic center of
São Luís, in Maranhão. The space dialogues with its surroundings in a harmonious way and
keeps its doors open to all audiences, encouraging
dialogue, creations and new proposals by artists of the local culture.
Complex S11D Eliezer Batista is inaugurated
In 2016, Vale inaugurated the S11D Eliezer Batista Complex, the largest project in
the company's history. The operation combines cutting-edge technology, low cost and
high productivity. Our special magazine features highlights
and construction details.
Learn more
Canaã dos Carajás, Pará (PA), Brazil, 06/14/2017 - Aerial view of the S11D Eliezer
Batista Complex. In the photo, crushing and screening area. Photo: Ricardo Teles
Assembly of the new buildings at the Cauê Plant, Itabira, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Photo: Bruno Vereza
A new wave for mining
In order to reuse the iron ore that was accumulated in piles formed over the years,
the Itabiritos Project appears.
Learn more
Autonomously driven truck with a capacity of 240 tons. Reproduction:
Vale.com
Autonomous mine
In 2018, huge off-road trucks, with a capacity of 240 tons, circulate on the roads of
a mining area without an operator in the cabin.
Learn more
Dam breakage I
The brackage of Dam I of the Córrego do Feijão mine, on January 25, 2019, in Brumadinho,
Minas Gerais, forever marks the history of Vale, its employees and the impacted
communities and people. To follow Vale's main actions
since the dam burst, visit: vale.com/reparacao.
Lead the transition to neutral mining
Commitment to Sustainability
Learn more
Vale Cultural Institute
The Vale Cultural Institute is created with the purpose of democratizing access and promoting
art, culture and the development of regional artistic expressions. Vale believes in the
transforming power of culture and, for more than
two decades, the company has invested and fostered multiple Brazilian cultural events.
100% electric locomotive
Vale and Progress Rail develop the first 100% electric locomotive for Brazilian
mining. Photo: Amélio Luiz Mandelli
The first 100% electric, battery-powered locomotive in Brazilian mining is from Vale. The
project is a partnership between Vale and Progress Rail and is part of the PowerShift
program, which aims to replace its energy matrix with
clean sources.
Learn more
Our actions in the pandemic
Coronavirus Kit - Arrival in Brazil. Photo: Renan Simões
In 2020, the world was taken aback by the new coronavirus pandemic. In addition to reviewing
all the health and safety protocols for our operations around the world, we understand that
this was a time when we needed to put our
efforts into humanitarian aid.
Learn more
Guilherme Correa de Oliveira, senior researcher at ITV in the Genomics
laboratory. Photo: Ricardo Teles
ITV: science in search of answers
In 2020, the Instituto Tecnológico Vale celebrates 10 years of existence. In the same
year of its anniversary, ITV and Fiocruz entered into a partnership to strengthen the
search for answers on the behavior of the new coronavirus.
Learn more
Fundo Vale completes 10 years
Launched on June 5, 2010, the Vale Fund supported over 75 initiatives in 10 years between
research institutions, local governments, NGOs, startups and community associations to
protect more than 23 million hectares of forest,
contributing , for this, about R $ 130 million in the last decade.
Protection of the Amazon
For over 30 years, Vale has been working to protect the forest in the
Amazon. In partnership with ICMBio, we maintain six conservation units, which
form the Mosaic of Carajás, in southeastern Pará, an area of about
800 thousand hectares, equivalent to five times the city of São Paulo.
Vale brand
Vale brand is built every day by each of us. It is the synthesis of our values, beliefs
and the way we see the world. In this section, we tell you a little more about how the
trajectory towards the brand we have today was:
consolidated and globally recognized.
Valley in Switzerland - Saint-Prex. Photo: Olli Geibel
Companhia Vale do Rio Doce
Companhia Vale do Rio Doce was created by the Brazilian government in 1942. With the
growing increase in production and export of ore, the company gained notoriety in
the market and thus the need to create an image that
represented it. Our first brand did not have a defined logo, and for twenty-five
years, the company was almost always identified by the acronym 'CVRD'. The first
brand representation came in 1967 and was created by
Aloísio Magalhães, who developed identifying signs for the company.
Vale do Rio Doce Company
The exponential growth since the 1970s made the company a synonym for development
and, therefore, in 1974 an internal contest was launched with the objective of
creating a new brand that represented this moment. The
winning brand made mention of the flags of Brazil and the state of Minas Gerais,
the birthplace of Companhia Vale do Rio Doce.
Detail of bags in Carajás, with old CVRD logo. Photo: Dario Zalis
Vale employee, Luana Ferreira, at the Ponta da Madeira Maritime Terminal, in
Maranhão. Photo: Ricardo Teles
Vale
After the privatization of the company in the 1990s and the acquisition of
Canadian mining company Inco, CVRD reached a new milestone in its history and,
with that, the need to reposition itself once again. The reasons
for the change could be summed up in one word: globalization. It was necessary
to think about the next steps towards a future of operations around the world,
but that also reinforced the company's Brazilian origin.
In 2007, the Vale do Rio Doce Company officially changed its name to Vale - which
was a big step towards facilitating pronunciation between different nationalities.
The drawing brought the letter "V", which makes a direct reference to the first
letter of the company name and can represent both a pit and a heart. Since then, the
brand has been present in uniforms, equipment and other
elements that are part of the employees' daily lives.
History Center
The Espaço Memória (History Center) project was born in 2011, during the production of
the book 'Our History' and the medium-length film of the same name that were created to
celebrate Vale's 70th anniversary. When deepening
the research for the construction of the materials, several documents of historical
relevance were discovered scattered in deposits and units of Vale. In view of the
importance of the items for Vale and for the narrative
of the trajectory of mining in Brazil, the need to save and protect the collection
arose.
Pico do Cauê - First years of iron ore extraction. Photo: Erich Hess
Our work
Curatorial Process
Be part of this story
The "findings" of memory
To keep memories alive, the collection kept at the History Center is divided into two
areas. The first is a laboratory that stores items of historical value identified by
the team, even without proper care. In it, each publication,
photo or object is cataloged and carefully analyzed, to determine the appropriate
treatment it should receive, from a simple cleaning to a chemical restoration, for
example. After being treated, the items are transferred
to the second area, the technical reserve, where the materials are sanitized under
controlled conditions of temperature and humidity.
All this work is carried out by a multidisciplinary team and passionate about what
they do. To ensure that the story is told in the right way and can be perpetuated
over the years, the professionals responsible for the
collection take the time to put together the pieces of the past puzzle and turn
loose paragraphs into a beautiful narrative.
Do you know how the process of curating and retrieving historical files is done?
The Espaço Memória team receives or finds a historical document of the company
and makes a complete analysis of the material, determining its state of
conservation, date of the item and its relevance to the history
of Vale.
Learn about the steps in this process that ensure that materials are conserved
correctly and can disseminate the history of Vale and mining in Brazil.
Original document before being treated, loose cover, time-worn pages and dull
colors.
Before starting cleaning, metal clips, clips or adhesive tapes are removed.
The pages are separated to be treated one by one.
The next step is mechanical cleaning. With a cotton “pad” (cotton ball
wrapped in fine fabric), rubbing powder is applied over the pages, rubbing
it in circular movements to remove the surface dirt from the document,
without interfering with its color and texture.
The rubber dust is removed with the help of a brush (kind of wide paintbrush)
and the deepest dirt, such as dust spots or insect faeces that are stuck to
the paper, are removed with a scalpel.
After cleaning, it is time to recompose the material. The cover, previously
torn, receives a “filling”: Japanese paper is placed at the seam of the two
halves and a layer of methylcellulose, neutral water-based
glue is applied. When moistened by glue, the paper is transparent, not
interfering with the color and design of the original document.
Done! The sanitized document is packed in polyester envelopes and stored.
We know that we still have a lot of history to tell, but we value every bit of our
past.
History is being written in our daily lives. Each event will be a historic event in a
short time. And, therefore, we know that we still have a lot of history to tell
ahead, while valuing every bit of our past.
If you have documents and historical materials from Vale and want to share them with
us, please contact us at espaco.memoria@vale.com.
Vale Presidents
President of Companhia Vale do Rio Doce (CVRD), Israel Pinheiro (in a white suit) and
delegation visit the Atalaia ore pier at Vitória Port (ES). Photo: Mazzei
2019
Eduardo Bartolomeo
In 2019, Eduardo Bartolomeo was elected Vale's CEO. Bartolomeo has 10 years
of experience in the company, having already held the position of Executive Director of
Logistics, Integrated Operations of Bulk Commodities
and Executive Director of Basic Metals in Canada. Ahead of these positions, he idealized
the Vale Production System (VPS), which, together with investment in technology and
training of people, generated great gains for
the company, resulting in more productivity and safety. In his management, the Center of
Excellence in Logistics was also created, with units in Espírito Santo and Maranhão,
dedicated to the training of port and railroad
professionals, with train simulators, ship loaders and maintenance.
In addition to Vale, the executive worked at Ambev between 1994 and 2003, having
performed executive functions, the last being as Director of Operations. He also has
experience as CEO and director at other companies.
2017 a 2019
Photo: Eny Miranda / Cia da Foto
Fabio Schvartsman
Fabio Schvartsman took office as Vale's president in 2017 and remained until 2019. The
production engineer is graduated and post-graduated in production engineering by the
Polytechnic School of the University of São Paulo and
had previously headed companies such as Duratex and Klabin. Fabio assumed the position
with the main objective of leading the group's corporate reorganization, with the
purpose of allocating the shares in a portfolio of common shares facing the Novo
Mercado.
Murilo Pinto de Oliveira Ferreira
Until reaching the highest position in Vale in 2011, Ferreira accumulated almost 30 years of
experience in the sector, since he joined the company in 1988, as director of Vale do Rio
Doce Alumínio (Aluvale). From then on, he held
several command positions until he became the president of Vale Inco, where he remained
until 2008. Since the beginning of his tenure at Vale, he has prioritized the
responsible execution of the company's investments, the training of employees and
initiatives aimed at valuing life.
2011 a 2017
Photo: Vantoen Pereira Jr
2001 a 2010
Photo: Eny Miranda / Cia da Foto
Roger Agnelli
When Roger Agnelli took over the Vale presidency in 2001, he already had leadership
experience, having served on the executive board of Banco Bradesco - the youngest to
achieve this feat. During his 10 years in office, Agnelli
bet on acquisitions of mines and companies abroad - an example was the purchase of
Canadian Inco. This made Vale jump from fourth to second place in the global
mining market, in addition to increasing the company's profit by more than R$ 25
billion.
In 2009, Agnelli signed, for Vale, the UN Global Compact, a program of 10 principles in
the areas of environment, human rights and combating corruption. During his tenure, the
brand also changed in 2007: from then on, the old
CVRD would simply be Vale.
1999 a 2001
Jório Dauster Magalhães e Silva
"It is necessary to constantly reinvent yourself," said Jório in an interview. This is
what he did throughout his life: in addition to being a diplomat, Dauster is also a
well-known name in literary translation, responsible
for translating works of great names into Portuguese. In 1999, he became president and
had as his main feat the restructuring of the company after privatization, in
addition to preparing the way for the expansion that would come in the following
years.
Dauster left Vale in 2001.
1992 a 1997
Francisco José Schettino
Francisco José Schettino was at the head of Vale in the period before the privatization
of the company. The engineer was installed shortly after the closing of Rio-92 (United
Nations Conference on Environment and Development),
based in Rio de Janeiro.
This was decisive for its performance, which focused on investing in environmental
preservation policies and refitting Vale's logistics, such as the new Ponta
da Madeira Maritime Terminal, in Maranhão. He also
participated in the transition after privatization, with a position on Vale's Board of
Directors.
Wilson Nélio Brumer
Wilson Brumer was sworn in as president of Companhia Vale do Rio Doce in 1990. He already had
a history at the company, which started in the 1980s, already as financial director. Brumer
took office with the mission of promoting,
albeit initially, an administrative reform that would prepare Vale for future privatization.
Among the highlights of its operations are the strengthening of its presence in the
stock market and the return on investments to Itabira.
1990 a 1992
1987 a 1990
Agripino Abranches Viana
Graduated from the Rural University of the State of Minas Gerais (now the Federal
University of Viçosa), Viana became special advisor to the presidency of CVRD, invited
by Eliezer Batista, in April 1979. With the death of Raymundo
Mascarenhas, in 1987, he was installed as president, accumulating the functions of
chairman of the Board of Directors of Docenave.
In its management, Vale eliminated the use of charcoal from native forests and
achieved self-sufficiency in the material from planted forests. In addition,
he prepared the Strategic Plan 1989-2000, with a focus
on internationalization.
1961 - 1964 & 1979 - 1986
Eliezer Batista
Eliezer Batista was the first career employee to occupy the job position within CVRD -
which occurred at two different times in the Company's history. To this day, the
engineer is referred to as one of the most important names for the company, which is
easily explained by the spectacular growth that would have occurred since the 1980s.
In his first stint in office (1962 - 1964), Eliezer was the creator of a large-scale and
long-term ore trading strategy with Japanese steelmakers, which led him to idealize the
Tubarão Maritime Terminal in Espírito Santo. In a second moment (1979 - 1986), he
participated in the implementation of the Ferro Carajás Project, which was decisive in
transforming CVRD into the largest iron ore mining company in the world.
1964 - 1965
Paulo José de Lima Vieira
Paulo Vieira already had experience as president, since he held the job position at
Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional before being sworn in as president of Vale in 1964. At
that time, the country was going through a military coup that removed João Goulart from
the presidency and, consequently, managerial functions - especially those linked to
state-owned companies - were fundamental to the new government's strategies.
His management was marked by the consolidation of the first ore sale contract to Japan -
previously signed. He also continued the works at the port of Tubarão and kept the
commitments made to the mining companies Samitri and Ferteco, which needed the Costa
Lacerda-Fábrica railway link to export their product. In January 1965, Vieira stepped
down because of political disagreements.
1965 - 1967
Photo: José Clóvis Ditzel Collection
Oscar de Oliveira
Oscar de Oliveira was already an employee of CVRD when he took office in 1965. The
greatest mark of his administration was the inauguration, in 1966, of the Maritime
Terminal of Tubarão, a project started four years before, still during the government of
João Goulart and with Eliezer Batista as president of Vale. With Tubarão, CVRD saw its
export numbers quadruple and, then, began to prepare for more conquests in the
international market, which would mark the next two decades.
He left the presidency of CVRD in March 1967, when the Castelo Branco government ended.
1967 – 1969
Antônio Dias Leite Jr.
Antônio Dias was appointed president of CVRD in 1967, at the age of 47. His management at
the head of the Company was marked by the incentive to the export sector: he sought
direct contact with consumer industries, which made possible the joint construction of
ore pelletizing plants.
In 1969, Vale's first pelletizing plant was opened in Tubarão, Espírito Santo, with a
production capacity of 2 million tons / year. In the same year, Leite left the direction
of the Company to take over the Ministry of Mines and Energy.
1969 - 1974 & 1986 - 1987
Raymundo Mascarenhas
Mascarenhas joined the company in 1957 and was the second CVRD employee to occupy the
highest job position in the company. In the first year of his management, CVRD's exports
went from 11,550 million tons shipped in 1968 to 16,056 million. This increase in sales
was also linked to the appearance of the new export product: pig iron produced in Minas
Gerais.
In 1974, Vale became the world's largest iron ore exporter, holding 16% of the
transoceanic ore market. In the same year, Raymundo left the company to take over the
management of another company, where he stayed until 1983. He returned to Companhia Vale
do Rio Doce the following year as commercial director, in 1985 he became vice president
and, in April of the following year, he was again installed as president.
1974 to 1978
Fernando Roquete Reis
Fernando Roquete Reis was installed at the beginning of the presidential term of General
Ernesto Geisel. Mining in Brazil was going through a series of strategic changes, with
an emphasis on diversification and business abroad. Reis participated in the legal
battle that involved Vale and United States Steel (partners in Amazônia Mineração SA)
for control over the exploration of the largest ore reserve in the world. Among other
highlights in his passage, are also the start of the Carajás project and investments in
the phosphate line - with Valep and Valefértil.
Joel Mendes Rennó
Joel Rennó was already close to Brazil's mineral policy when he took office as president in
1978: he was an advisor for Strategic Affairs to the Minister of Mines and Energy at the
time. During his short term, he prioritized the construction of the Carajás Railway, which
would take the ore from Pará to the port in São Luís.
He was also responsible for the elaboration and assembly of the new mine-railroad-port
complex, which fulfilled a fundamental role for the development of the region and for the
success of the business. Rennó left office in 1979 and was later president of Petrobras.
1978 to 1979
1953 a 1961
Francisco de Sá Lessa
For eight years, Francisco de Sá Lessa held the position of president. He was a civil
engineer, with a postgraduate degree in Industrial Chemistry from the Polytechnic School
of Rio de Janeiro, and his training was reflected
in his management profile. During the period in which she served, Lessa directed the
sales and ores commission, which was directed to the study on the increase of the
production, transport and export capacity of Itabira
iron ore and the placing of this ore in international consumer markets, as Germany and
Eastern European countries. Upon leaving the presidency, Vale was already relevant in
the international market.
1951 a 1952
Juracy Magalhães
Juracy Magalhães was a political figure of great importance, especially for the Northeast
region of the country. In 1951, at the personal invitation of the then president Getúlio
Vargas, he accepted the position of president
at Vale - where he remained until 1952.
During this period, it implemented new methods of human resource management and became
known for demanding strict punctuality from employees. Its railway projects were
also decisive for the expansion and efficiency of the Vitória-Minas Railway. Upon
leaving office, he pursued his political career and was also Brazil's ambassador to
the United States. In the following years, he was Minister of Justice and
Foreign Affairs.
Demerval Pimenta
Demerval Pimenta was the second president of Vale. Together with four groups of directors,
the administrator formed by the Escola de Minas de Ouro Preto was responsible for
leveraging the company's export in a post-World War II scenario and continuing with
the work of implementing CVRD.
1946 a 1951
1943 a 1946
Israel Pinheiro
Before officially joining the staff of Companhia Vale do Rio Doce, Israel Pinheiro was
already Vale. He participated in the negotiations on the Washington Accords -
signed between Brazil, England and the USA - which resulted in the birth of the
company in 1942.
In the early years of CVRD, he was in charge of the presidency. After he left the
Company, he returned to dedicate himself to politics: he was the first mayor of Brasília
and governed Minas Gerais between 1966 and 1971.
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