Demand an asbestos-free Europe
🚑 Your health at risk
Houses and public buildings across Europe contain tons of asbestos. Asbestos can cause cancer. Deteriorating asbestos applications can release fibers or dust, which, once airborne, pose a health threat to people using these buildings.
Asbestos roofing (Photo: Bill Bradley)
Being a cheap, fire-resistant and easily available mineral, asbestos was popular in construction between the 1940s and 1980s. Sadly, thousands of European workers have lost their lives due to occupational exposure.
The use of asbestos in buildings is now prohibited, however it is still present in places where it was used, posing an invisible but growing risk as buildings age.
An asbestos-free Europe is possible! 🏠
The renovation wave towards climate neutrality offers a unique opportunity. Together with energy-saving renovations, we can remove asbestos from our houses, schools, healthcare facilities, and other public buildings. Bringing down energy costs and making homes and buildings safer in the process.
How can we achieve an asbestos-free Europe?
- The European Commission should introduce legislation for national asbestos removal plans in all EU countries.
- European Funds must be made available for citizens, cities, regions, and EU countries to support asbestos removal plans, with particular attention to the most vulnerable households, and the safety of construction workers.
You can help free Europe from asbestos
Use our tool and send an email to Mr. Frans Timmermans, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, and responsible for the Green Deal and the climate transition; and to Mr. Thierry Breton, Commissioner for the Internal Market.
We have prepared a draft for you. Let us free Europe from asbestos.
Sara Matthieu
Greens/EFA Member of the European Parliament
📸 Cover photo by PxHere