ASBESTOS AFTER THE BAN: AN INVISIBLE THREAT IN THE AIR

Why banning asbestos in 2022 didn’t solve the problem — and how war has made it worse

EcoNoob · 2026 · 6 min read

In 2022, Ukraine took an important step — asbestos was officially banned.

This decision aligned the country with European safety standards and was meant to reduce long-term health risks.

But there’s a problem.

The ban did not remove asbestos from cities. It only stopped its future use.

A legacy that remains

For decades, asbestos was widely used in construction:

• roofing materials
• pipe insulation
• facade elements
• technical infrastructure

In many Ukrainian cities — especially those with Soviet-era buildings — asbestos is still present in thousands of structures.

As long as it remains intact, the risk is relatively low.

But the war has changed that.

When buildings collapse, dust rises

Missile strikes and explosions destroy buildings, roofs, and infrastructure.

Along with concrete, glass, and debris, large amounts of dust are released into the air.

And that dust often contains asbestos.

Microscopic fibers are released when materials break apart and can travel long distances — especially in dense urban environments.

People inhale this air without knowing what it contains.

Why it matters

Asbestos does not cause immediate symptoms.

Its danger lies in long-term exposure.

Diseases linked to asbestos include:

• lung cancer
• mesothelioma
• asbestosis

These conditions can develop decades after exposure.

This means the health consequences of today’s events may only become visible years later.

Higher risk in large cities

Major cities face greater risk due to:

• dense construction
• large numbers of older buildings
• scale of destruction

Dust from a single strike can spread across entire neighborhoods.

Repeated attacks may lead to continuous exposure.

What can be done now

Even in difficult conditions, some precautions can help:

• avoid areas with fresh damage
• use respiratory protection if possible
• do not handle debris without protection
• keep windows closed during heavy dust
• stay informed

Looking ahead

After the war, Ukraine will face not only reconstruction — but also the challenge of safely removing hazardous materials.

Asbestos is one of them.

The ban was an important step. But the real challenge is what already exists.

Conclusion

Asbestos is no longer used. But it is still around us.

And in the context of war, its impact may become greater than ever before.

It is a silent threat that does not disappear with explosions — but may only begin there.

✦ EcoNoob