How to Get Rid of the Global Asbestos Waste Problem

31 Jul 2024

Believe it or not, 200 million tonnes of asbestos have been produced since mining of the substance began in the 19th century—a colossal sum indeed. The potentially deadly material can cause cancer and severe lung disease when its airborne fibres are inhaled - a problem that kills, on average, 255,000 people every year. 

Currently, methods of asbestos disposal in Ireland include placing the waste into landfills, a practice that can lead to its release into our water supplies and the wider environment. However, better ways are being used in other parts of the world—something that we look at in this article. 

Innovative Asbestos Disposal Methods

So, how are other nations choosing to deal with asbestos disposal? Well, in the Netherlands city of Rotterdam, a company called Asbeter is using a process of milling and heating to create a non-toxic material—calcium silicate hydrate—that’s safe for use in construction. 

Other techniques, such as heat denaturing (turning asbestos into a glass-like material), bioremediation (using bacteria and fungi), and other chemical treatments, are being used as safer and more environmentally friendly alternatives to landfills. 

While there is currently no evidence to suggest that ingesting asbestos in water causes health issues, climate change could cause the material to become airborne and deadly once again. As such, the current landfill solution would seem to be unsustainable long-term.

A Safer Asbestos Disposal Method Needs to Be Adopted

While the landfill solution will continue to be the method of choice for the time being, a safer and more eco-friendly solution needs to be found and adopted. The good news is that innovative steps are being taken across the world, meaning that a viable alternative shouldn’t be too far away. 

At OHSS, we help businesses across Ireland to protect themselves and their staff from the dangers of asbestos. To find out more about our work in this field and the occupational hygiene consultation services we offer, visit us today at www.ohss.ie. Alternatively, to speak to our team directly, call us today on 01 6905907.

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