EPA Bans Most Asbestos, Despite Industry Opposition

AsbestosPhoto byTneil AbtonUnsplash

The Environmental Protection Agency has banned most common forms of asbestos in the U.S., with a few exceptions, such as when it's used to make titanium dioxide or for the disposal of nuclear material. "The U.S. is prohibiting the use of chrysotile asbestos, joining more than 50 other countries that have already outlawed the substance."

Roughly 40,000 people in the U.S. die each year from asbestos exposure. It can cause a host of illnesses if inhaled, such as lung and ovarian cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma. The EPA has been trying to ban asbestos since the 1980's.

This is not a total ban, but is targeted at certain products and processes, such as automotive gaskets. It will also end the use of asbestos diaphragms by the chlor-alkali industry, which is used in making various chemicals.

The chlor-alkali industry uses large filters containing asbestos called diaphragms to make chemicals such as sodium hydroxide and chlorine, which can be used to disinfect drinking water and wastewater.

For a more detailed description of the bans scope, see the complete story here.