Asbestos, once hailed for its durability and fire-resistant properties, has become synonymous with severe health risks, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and Asbestosis. Despite these dangers, a global ban on Asbestos remains elusive. As of 2023, global consumption of unmanufactured Asbestos fiber was estimated to be between 1.1 million and 1.3 million metric tons annually. Regionally, Asia and the Middle East were the largest consumers according to Statista.

This article delves into the current landscape of Asbestos use, associated health impacts, and the ongoing debate surrounding its prohibition.

The Human Toll of Asbestos Exposure

Globally, Asbestos exposure is responsible for approximately 255,000 deaths annually, with around 233,000 of these resulting from work-related exposures. In the United States alone, Asbestos-related diseases claim between 12,000 and 15,000 lives each year.

Global Production and Consumption of Asbestos

Asbestos production and consumption are concentrated in specific regions

Major Producers: Countries like Russia, China, and Kazakhstan are among the top producers of Asbestos.
Leading Consumers: Nations such as India, China, and Indonesia continue to utilize Asbestos extensively, particularly in construction materials.

Despite the known health risks, these countries argue that controlled use of chrysotile Asbestos can be managed safely.

The Rotterdam Convention and Chrysotile Asbestos

The Rotterdam Convention is an international treaty designed to facilitate informed decision-making regarding the import and export of hazardous chemicals. Chrysotile Asbestos is listed under this convention, requiring exporting countries to obtain prior informed consent from importing countries before proceeding. However, efforts to include chrysotile Asbestos in the convention's Annex III, which would subject it to stricter trade regulations, have faced opposition from major Asbestos-producing nations.

Advocacy for a Global Ban

Numerous organizations are campaigning for a worldwide Asbestos ban:

World Health Organization (WHO): Advocates for the elimination of Asbestos-related diseases through global bans and the promotion of safer alternatives.
International Labour Organization (ILO): Supports efforts to prohibit Asbestos to protect workers' health.
International Ban Asbestos Secretariat (IBAS): A global network dedicated to sharing information and promoting actions against Asbestos use.

Resistance to a Global Ban

Opposition to a universal Asbestos ban stems from several quarters:

Economic Interests: Countries like Russia and China, with significant Asbestos industries, resist bans due to economic dependencies.
Industry Lobbying: Organizations within Asbestos-producing nations often lobby against bans, citing economic impacts and advocating for "controlled use" policies.

Pathways to a Global Ban

Achieving a worldwide Asbestos ban requires concerted efforts:

International Collaboration: Countries must work together to establish and enforce comprehensive bans.
Economic Transition Support: Providing assistance to nations reliant on Asbestos production to diversify their economies.
Public Education: Raising awareness about the dangers of Asbestos and promoting safer alternatives.

In conclusion, while the path to a global Asbestos ban is fraught with challenges, continued advocacy, international cooperation, and public education are pivotal in mitigating the health risks associated with Asbestos exposure.

If you have any Asbestos related concerns, contact us to see how Anthesis Consulting Middle East can help you:

Charles Faulkner (Head of Environment, Health and Safety, and Asbestos Team Leader)

Phone: +971 (0) 50 5541 320

Email: asbestos@anthesisgroup.com