'Very, very toxic': The risk of asbestos in Gaza's rubble
Summary
Israel's military campaign in Gaza has led to a release of asbestos, a toxic mineral found primarily in the roofing of many refugee camps in the territory. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) estimated in 2024 that up to 2.3 million tons of rubble in Gaza could be laced with asbestos, causing a long-term health risk for residents exposed to its dangerous fibers.Key Facts
- Israel's military operations disturbed asbestos in Gaza's buildings.
- Asbestos is a toxic mineral found mostly in roofing materials of refugee camps in Gaza.
- The United Nations Environment Programme estimated up to 2.3 million tons of rubble in Gaza may be contaminated with asbestos.
- Exposure to asbestos can lead to serious lung conditions like asbestosis or mesothelioma, decades after initial exposure.
- Asbestos fibers, released upon disturbance, can be easily inhaled and attach to the lungs.
- Gaza is densely populated, housing approximately 2.1 million people within 141 square miles.
- Following a 2009 conflict in Gaza, a UN survey found asbestos in debris from older buildings and infrastructure.
- Awareness and management of asbestos risks are challenging among occupants due to ongoing and immediate dangers.
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