The Canadian government's decision to reopen the Jeffrey Mine for asbestos mining has concerned environmental, labor, and health organizations. The World Health Organization classifies asbestos as carcinogenic as inhalation of asbestos dust can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, killing over 100,000 people annually. Its use is banned in over 50 countries due to health hazards. Mining conditions in Canada were also found to have minimal safety standards. While India has restricted asbestos, its Supreme Court refused a ban and instead directed governments to regulate its production and use, as the material remains common for low-cost construction despite health risks. Alternatives such as cellulose and agricultural fibers should be promoted over asbestos

1. Rising Concern Over Asbestos Mining
A recent decision of the government of Canada to revive the 'Jeffrey Mine' to
resume asbestos mining has raised concern among the environment, labour
and human rights activities & health related organisations.
Reason for Concern
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified asbestos as a
carcinogenic (cancer generating substance) material. As per an estimation,
more than 1 lakh people die each year from asbestos related lung cancer,
mesothelioma and asbestosis, which is caused by inhaling chrysolite dust, a
common occurrence in asbestos plants. This is the reason use of asbestos is
banned in more than 50 countries worldwide. Also an investigation of the
mining area & asbestos plants by Canadian Broadcasting Corporation found
the working condition and the safety norms very minimal and not at all upto
the mark.
Indian Context
Though mining and trading in asbestos waste is technically banned in India,
but as per a report, about 90% of Canada's asbestos is being exported to
developing countries like India. As because of low cost and high resistivity it
is often used by the poor people in making roofing structure. Even India has

2. recently listed asbestos as a restricted chemical, the Supreme Court of India
refused to ban the substance, instead of directing State Government to
regulate its manufacturing and further usage.
Conclusion
Even though asbestos is considered 'the poor man's material' because of its
low cost & easy availability, but looking at the hazardous health effects
arising from it, it is a strong urge from the government to prevent its mining,
trade, manufacturing and complete ban on its use. On the other hand, the
government must look out for its alternatives, such as cellulose and
agricultural fibers.
Important from the examination point of
view:
i) Critically examine the recent move of the Canadian Government of
removing ban on asbestos mining. Why this is being criticized by the
environmentalists and the human right activists?
ii) Despite being a cheap construction material, briefly explain why the use of
asbestos is becoming a matter of concern?
iii) What are the health hazards arising from the usage of asbestos? Suggest
some of its alternatives and also suggest some steps that government should
take in order to check these heath complications.

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