Environmental Effects of Asbestos + 8 Ways to Limit Exposure

Written by Karen Selby, RN | Edited By Walter Pacheco

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Where Is Asbestos in Our Environment?

Asbestos naturally forms underground in certain kinds of rocks, often close to fault zones. Some rocks feature visible veins of asbestos running through them. This can look like white or yellowish patterns cutting through the rock. 

Asbestos is banned in more than 50 countries. In the United States, a plan to ban chrysotile asbestos was announced in 2024. Other types are regulated but not banned. Known for its durability, strength and resistance to decay, asbestos has been used since the 1800s. Today, it can still be found in some consumer products. Examples include gaskets and brakes.

Mining is the primary way of extracting asbestos from the earth. Asbestos mining ended in the U.S. in 2002. Waste from former asbestos mining operations can reach surrounding environments. Winds can carry minuscule asbestos fibers into nearby communities. 

Asbestos dust has been acknowledged as a health risk since at least 1932. The U.S. Bureau of Mines stated in a letter to an asbestos manufacturer, “It is now known that asbestos dust is one of the most dangerous dusts to which man is exposed.” 

Environmental asbestos exposure occurs through the disturbance of natural asbestos deposits, the processing of asbestos ore and through improper disposal. Natural disasters pose another risk in the spread of dangerous asbestos fibers. Strong winds, floods or rainwater can carry the fibers into communities and local drinking sources. Sudden destruction or damage to contaminated buildings can release asbestos into our air and waterways.

Who Is at Risk?

When it comes to asbestos in the environment, people living near former asbestos mines and natural deposits are at increased risk of exposure. Children face heightened risks if exposed because their lungs are still developing. Their young age offers time for asbestos to damage their health. Asbestos-related health issues take approximately 20 years to develop.

Asbestos is found in low levels in air, water or soil nationwide. Thus, everyone is exposed during their lifetime. Most people remain healthy with limited exposure. Yet, globally, asbestos causes over 250,000 deaths each year. One study suggests that for every 20 tons of asbestos mined and used, one person dies.

Evidence shows a rise in environmentally caused mesothelioma in certain areas. Researchers find it significant that more women than men are affected. They suggest further studies are needed to understand this.

Asbestos in the United States

Naturally occurring asbestos deposits are located in many regions of the United States.  Mountainous regions have the most deposits. States such as Pennsylvania, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Connecticut, Vermont and Massachusetts were all home to asbestos mines at one time. 

The Western U.S. was home to mining operations in California, Montana, Nevada, Wyoming, Idaho and Washington. The U.S. Geological Survey has created an interactive map you can use to see if there are natural asbestos deposits near you. Monitoring and mapping asbestos mines and deposits around the country creates broader awareness of the risks. 

Asbestos mining in the U.S. ended two decades ago. Usage has dropped from 803,000 tons in 1973 to under 800 tons yearly now. This decline has lowered the risk of new contamination.

Currently, the chloralkali industry is the only remaining domestic consumer of asbestos in the United States. These manufacturers use asbestos fibers to make semipermeable, fireproof diaphragms.

Case Study: Las Vegas, Nevada

In 2015, researchers from the University of Hawaii Cancer Center found high rates of mesothelioma in the women and young people of Clark and Nye counties in southern Nevada. 

They determined environmental exposure to asbestos in the region was largely the result of development. The mix of construction growth, off-road recreational vehicle usage, dust storms and a dry climate allowed asbestos to become airborne and blow into the Las Vegas area. This area is home to 1.9 million people. 

Many residents live close to or downwind from natural asbestos sources. A 2019 study showed that ongoing development and population growth increase the risk of exposure.

Case Study: Libby, Montana

For decades, asbestos mining in Libby, Montana, spread toxic dust. This dust killed about 700 people and harmed 2,400 others. The mine closed in 1990, but cleanup didn’t begin until 1999. The Environmental Protection Agency removed over a million cubic yards of hazardous materials. This made it the largest asbestos cleanup in U.S. history.

The EPA transferred oversight of the project, except the mine site itself, to the Montana Department of Environmental Quality in 2020. In 2021, it announced that another major section of the restoration effort had been completed.

A local newspaper reported in 2018 that asbestos-related diseases and deaths continue to come to light. The long latency period between asbestos exposure and diagnosis of related diseases causes this trend.

Ways to Limit Environmental Asbestos Exposure

With low-level asbestos contamination in the environment, it is impossible to eliminate your exposure risks. But there are strategies you can use to decrease those risks. 

Americans who live near a former asbestos mine or natural asbestos site may need to take extra precautions to limit exposure.

Educate Yourself About Asbestos Risks

• Take the time to learn about asbestos and how it can hide in plain sight.
• Learn how to safely identify asbestos in your home. Always call a professional for help.
• Use the resources in this post to discover potential asbestos deposits in your area.

Pay Attention to the Unpaved Ground Around You

Asbestos is found in rocks and its dust is easily spread. You’re more likely to be exposed on unpaved roads than on paved ones. If you live near asbestos sites, follow these tips to stay safe.

• Drive slowly on unpaved roads to minimize dust.
• Follow construction zone regulations to reduce construction dust.
• Consider choosing a paved trail over a dirt trail on your next hike or bike ride.

Keep Dust Down

• To reduce the risk of a toxic asbestos dust cloud, wet the ground outside before you garden or do other activities. If asbestos doesn’t occur in soil in your area, you don’t need to wet the ground.
• Invest in paving the walkways and driveways around your home. This will cover any asbestos-containing rocks or soil.
• Shut your windows and doors on windy days and if there is nearby construction.

Be Mindful When Planning Outdoor Activities

• Research ahead of time to find out if natural asbestos is in your area (or areas you visit).
• If you plan to garden, use asbestos-free soil or landscaping materials to cover the ground. This involves avoiding products containing vermiculite.
• Avoid visiting old building sites or locations with visible waste.

Stay Vigilant at Work

• Wear the protective equipment provided at work. Follow all safety precautions.
• Clean contaminated clothing or shoes at work to avoid bringing asbestos home.
• Use an approved respirator when working with known asbestos materials.

Be Aware of Secondhand Exposure Risks

• Prevent anyone exposed to asbestos from bringing it into your home by utilizing doormats and having them take off shoes before entering.
• Protect your floors from settling asbestos dust by laying down washable area rugs and using a wet mop.
• Wipe your pets down with a damp rag or cloth when they come inside.

Hire a Professional if You Have Asbestos Concerns

• Talk to an asbestos inspector in your area if you want your home checked for asbestos risks.
• Use lab testing to verify any naturally occurring asbestos you may have found.
• Do not try to remove or clean up asbestos yourself.

Become an Advocate for Asbestos Cleanup

• Learn about the challenges of asbestos and how it’s handled around the world.
• Contact nonprofits and government leaders to advocate for stronger policies on asbestos removal and cleanup.
• Share what you’ve learned with others to spread awareness of the risks of asbestos.

Asbestos is common in our environment but can seriously harm our health. Understanding it and the risks of exposure can lead to a safer future.