There is, however, at least one type of hazardous waste that is none of these things and yet poses a huge problem for disposal.

That material is asbestos, which of course poses huge risk to human health but provided it is disposed of correctly, will not cause pollution.

Asbestos is a generic term for a group of naturally occurring minerals that are fire-retardant, and chemically and electrically stable.

It has been known as a material for thousands of years.

However, some of the properties that make asbestos such a useful material contribute to its hazardous nature.

Asbestos splinters into microscopic fibres, and because it is chemically stable, when breathed in, the fibres can penetrate deep into the lungs.

In simple terms the fibres will activate a localised inflammatory reaction as the body tries to rid itself of the irritant.

Because the fibres are so chemically stable, the lungs are not able to metabolise them and eventually oxygen diffusion into the body will be inhibited.

Given the focus on the adverse health effects of asbestos in recent years and the resulting lawsuits from people who have developed respiratory illnesses as a result of chronic exposure, it is interesting to note that even ancient civilisations such as the Greeks and Persians were aware of its effects on human health.

Due to its health effects, asbestos use has almost completely ceased in the developed world with the European Union banning it entirely from new construction projects.

However, asbestos is still widely used in the developing world.
While banned as a material for use in new buildings, there is still a lot of asbestos about and this can prove problematic during demolition works.

Construction and demolition workers have to take great care when dismantling asbestos-containing buildings.

It is perhaps at the household level where disposal can pose a problem, since most waste or building contractors will not touch asbestos, leaving only a few expensive specialist contractors willing to do the job.

There are also restrictions on asbestos being accepted at household waste recycling centres, with only cement bonded asbestos accepted (and to a maximum quantity of 200kg) at specific sites only.

In West Sussex only Shoreham, Crawley and Chichester are licensed to accept asbestos.

It should be double wrapped with heavy gauge polythene wrap before being taken.

Further guidance should be sought from the Shoreham site before you visit, on 01273 454081.

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