The ongoing use of asbestos is clearly not just a national concern but a global one. Asbestos has sparked an eternal flame in public discourse, but, how come nobody’s batting an eyelash? Many countries have enacted policies to finally close down the asbestos industry, even supporting research to find better alternatives.
But, why is asbestos still abundant in the world’s overall waste collection? In our daily operations, we face the risk of being exposed to asbestos waste. And this knowledge has led us to the notion that proper asbestos waste disposal should be a national, and also, an individual responsibility.
Understanding the Risks
Asbestos is a lingering threat to public health. It has been classified as a known human carcinogen which, when breathed in, accumulate in the lungs, causing scarring and inflammation. Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibres also increases a person’s risk of developing mesothelioma and asbestosis or cancers of the throat, kidney, oesophagus and gallbladder. This is especially apparent in industries that work closely with the mineral such as the construction, manufacturing and mining industries. Firefighters are also at higher risk of asbestos-related diseases.
The Cost of Proper Asbestos Disposal
Illegal dumping of asbestos is a growing problem because proper disposal is too costly. Thus, people resort to finding their own means. It is true that proper disposal comes with a price, but there are reasons, and one of it is because asbestos should not mix with other types of waste. There are also special guidelines for storing and transporting asbestos waste. But, businesses should invest in proper disposal of asbestos, simply because it is their responsibility to contribute positively to public health and the environment.
Individual Responsibility for the Greater Good
Asbestos is still present in homes and buildings, especially old structures built before the early 1990s. Before the discovery of its toxicity and the first diagnosis of asbestosis, it was the most preferred building material as it was highly durable, versatile and highly resistant to fire. As individuals, we should be aware that we are still exposed to asbestos every day, even if we don’t work in mines or manufacturing sites. It is present in the air, water and soil. For instance, when we are doing home renovations and we’re removing furniture or components made of asbestos fibres, we should properly dispose them.
Individuals and businesses should not resort to illegally dumping their asbestos waste. Contact Kiwi Skips today for information about our waste removal services in Jandakot.
