shaken out of apathy by a recent study on the health hazards posed by industrial fibre, the government finally announced a ban on asbestos from next year. The ban, which is already in effect in most other industrialised nations, came after a new study revealed that asbestos -- a heat-resistant fibre used in building insulation, roofing and filters -- took the lives of about 2,000 people in France every year. Asbestos has been found to induce lung cancers and other lethal respiratory ailments.
"The manufacture, import and sale of products containing asbestos cement are banned,"said labour minister Jacques Barrot. Environmentalists and labour groups criticised the government for its failure to act earlier. France began restricting the use of asbestos in 1977 and banned the lining of building interiors with asbestos insulation in1987, but it was still used in some construction materials.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.