• Asbestos is one of the most widely known environmental hazards. Asbestos leads to various health problems, including the rare lung cancer known as mesothelioma. Asbestos poses health hazards to humans in buildings and structures, but can also present a hazard in the environment.
  
  

Asbestos in Water

• Asbestos can leak into water supplies from improper disposal or faulty mining procedures. Water plants are responsible for checking water to make sure it is free of asbestos particles and other chemicals. However, the World Health Organization conducted a report in 2003 stating that research showed no adverse effects from drinking water with asbestos particles in it.
  
  

Asbestos in Landfills

• According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, asbestos is often disposed of in landfills. The agency monitors the level of asbestos in approved landfills. Asbestos is tested in soil around these landfills to make sure the exposure levels are within limits.
  
  

Mining of Ores Containing Asbestos

• In 1991, a case occurred in Libby, Mont. where vermiculite ore was mined containing particles of asbestos. There was much concern about the ore becoming airborne and causing illnesses in both miners and residents in the area. Luckily, the mine was closed down the same year.