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PacWastePlus has been working with several countries on the development of appropriate regulations to ban the importation of Asbestos and Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM). The template regulations provided in this document are a starting point for countries wishing to progress similar regulations in their jurisdictions that suit their specific legislative environment.

This Position Paper highlights the problem of asbestos disposal in the Pacific region, including Timor Leste. There remains a significant amount of legacy asbestos containing material (ACM) to be managed and the safe disposal of ACM waste is the focus of this paper. Once landfilled or entombed, the asbestos containing material (ACM) should not be disturbed. A PESTLE analysis little doubt that local burial of asbestos waste, conducted and maintained under strict health and safety protocols, is the best solution to the legacy issues of ACM in Pacific Island countries. However, some challenges remain, including political and community resistance, cultural concerns, and securing adequate funding for infrastructure.

Asbestos has been widely used in the Pacific and represents a significant health risk to Pacific Islanders who may be exposed to the asbestos fibres. With proper management, risks from asbestos containing material (ACM) waste can be effectively controlled. The safest way to dispose of ACM waste in the Pacific is local disposal in well-managed landfills. This reduces costs, prevents environmental harm, and ensures the safety of communities for future generations.

Note that this factsheet applies principally to poor historical management of asbestos materials, and not to illegal disposal or landfilling activities related to waste generated offsite. Inhalation of asbestos fibers is the only infection route established as causing harm to people. Other exposure routes (such as dermal contact or clothing contamination) may contribute to secondary exposure i.e. subsequent re-release of fibers into the air and inhalation following the initial exposure and are therefore important. If friable asbestos, i.e., materials that are easily crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder with hand pressure, are identified in or on soil, all the following actions shall be taken: isolate and secure the area, minimize the release of fibers into the air, engage an appropriate asbestos removal contractor to conduct asbestos removal work.

Asbestos removal (remediation) requires careful procedures, and the waste materials must be disposed of safely, ensuring that no-one can breathe in the hazardous fibers during remediation, transport, and disposal. Once landfilled or entombed, the asbestos containing material (ACM) should not be disturbed. A PESTLE analysis leaves little doubt that local burial of asbestos waste, conducted and maintained under strict health and safety protocols, is the best solution to the legacy issues of ACM in Pacific Island countries. However, some challenges remain, including political and community resistance, cultural concerns, and securing adequate funding for infrastructure.