Thank you for Subscribing to Environmental Business Review Weekly Brief
Aside from the human health issues associated with asbestos, the effects of this toxic mineral on the environment are concerning. Asbestos fibers impact the environment and are non-evaporative, weatherproof, and chemically resistant.
There was a time when asbestos, a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals, was heralded as a "miracle mineral" in the construction and manufacturing industries. As a result of its strength, resilience, and resistance to heat, as well as its electrical attributes and chemical composition, it made an excellent choice. Although regarded as a miracle mineral, it also came with a deadly drawback, which gradually became apparent - asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma were all known to be caused by it. Emerging health hazards It is very dangerous to inhale asbestos fibers, particularly when disturbed, such as during remodeling or demolition. As microscopic fibers get lodged in lung tissues, they cause scarring, inflammation, and DNA damage, which can be fatal. There is a long period of time before asbestos exposure symptoms manifest, making them even more hazardous. Cancers like lung cancer and mesothelioma are headline-grabbers, often causing death within a year. Asbestosis, pleural plaques, and pleural effusions are all nonmalignant diseases that adversely affect lung function, negatively affecting quality of life. Asbestos is extremely dangerous at any level of exposure. Environmental impacts of asbestos Aside from the human health issues associated with asbestos, the effects of this toxic mineral on the environment are concerning. Asbestos fibers impact the environment and are non-evaporative, weatherproof, and chemically resistant. When handled improperly, fibers can contaminate the air, soil, and water. Human activity or natural weather causes soil fibers to be stirred into the air. Asbestos can be released into the environment by inadequately covered asbestos tailings and human-made features such as landfills or illegal asbestos dumping sites. Managing and abating asbestos professionally It is a meticulous process that requires specialist knowledge and strict safety protocols. The protection of human health and the environment is maximized by eliminating asbestos properly and engaging professional management.