Coming Events

The health hazards from asbestos exposure have been well known for over 50 years.  The global death toll from asbestos-related diseases is currently estimated at around 239,000 annually (2019, Global Burden of Disease).  Beginning in the 1980s, many countries banned asbestos and found much safer substitutes.  However, asbestos use continues in a number of countries, where products such as corrugated asbestos cement roofing continue to play an important role in the economy.

In this webinar, experts from countries still using asbestos will outline the challenges that stand in the way of banning asbestos.  Presenters from countries that have succeeded in banning asbestos will outline the combination of regulations and transitional incentives and supports which contributed to a successful outcome.

Presenters will share their perspectives on what will work best to finally end asbestos use globally.  Canada’s Ambassador to the United Nations, The Hon. Bob Rae, will open the webinar with remarks on the international contex, while Dr. Jukka Takala, Past President of the International Commission of Occupational Health, will make closing remarks on the best way forward.