Asbestos use is still rampant in parts of the world, despite overwhelming research that shows it causes respiratory diseases and cancers. Many countries have implemented regulations for the protection of the people who would otherwise live and work around this toxic material, and more than 50 countries have banned asbestos. But some countries, including, Canada, take a much more relaxed approach to asbestos and the regulation of it. Canada has not banned it. Partly because of its history of asbestos mining and exporting, Canada has had contradictory asbestos regulations throughout much of the 1900s and 21st century. 

A History of Conflicting Regulations

Canada has implemented widespread regulations on specific types of asbestos while allowing mining and exporting of other asbestos forms to occur. Chrysotile asbestos, or white asbestos, is regulated by the government and is permissible for certain use cases, including mining until recently. Other forms, such as crocidolite asbestos, are restricted from use.

Health Canada, one of the nation's most prominent health entities, reinforced the existence of Canada's regulations by stating: "The sale of pure asbestos and certain high-risk consumer products that are composed of or contain asbestos fibers is strictly regulated under the Hazardous Products Act." Many of the regulatory guidelines for asbestos are outlined through the Canadian Environmental Protection Act.

Some experts cite economics as the cause behind Canada's confusing regulatory standards. Chrysotile asbestos has been limited for product use inside the country but has been exported to India and other developing countries for many years.

It is estimated that asbestos exports account for approximately $100 million a year in revenue for Canada. Politically, the discussion of asbestos regulations in Canada has been contentious. On one side there is the belief that regulations don't need to be tightened because asbestos doesn't pose a threat if limited exposure occurs. On the other side, critics believe that stronger regulations are necessary because any quantity of asbestos can be dangerous, which is a stance that has been reaffirmed by numerous reputable health entities.

Push For Tighter Regulations

Recently, some areas have trended towards tighter regulations, notably Quebec and Ottawa. The Jeffery Mine, one of the larger asbestos mines, has discontinued mining activities. Province funding to the Chrysotile institute has diminished in Ottawa as Canadian residents at large are becoming more in favor of tougher regulations.

Many health agencies, politicians, Canadian mesothelioma patients, industrial workers, doctors and environmentalists are part of the opposing movement that would like to see a complete asbestos ban.

Through lobbying efforts, public education and awareness, as well as involvement from the scientific community, these groups strive to change asbestos regulations to reflect a safer and health-conscious approach with a goal of completely banning asbestos. Because regulations stem from laws, political consensus and support is required in order for long-lasting regulatory change to occur.