Even decades after substances are removed from use in Canada, they can continue to have long lasting effects on the health of Canadians and their environment.  One example is asbestos, a mineral used for insulation in homes and products in Canada until the 1980s.  Concern that asbestos can cause cancer has led to the product being banned for use in homes and most industrial applications in Canada and in most countries around the world.  

Nonetheless, many older homes continue to contain this dangerous substance.  Moreover, individuals exposed to asbestos in the 1970's or earlier may still develop mesothelioma or other asbestos related deseases later in life.

Although banned for use in this country, Canada remains one of the few nations to continue exporting asbestos, primarily to developing countries.  Ban Asbestos Canada is a non-profit organization that seeks to stop Canada's export of this dangerous substance.

CMHC provides information on how to detect and most safely deal with asbestos in your home.