A proposal introduced by Congressman Dennis Kucinich (Ohio) and four other congressmen has paved the way for the World Bank to finalize a new policy that will significantly decrease the use of asbestos in new construction projects for developing countries.
Representatives hope this effort will increase awareness of the health risks associated with occupational asbestos exposure. The policy will not only install new regulations on asbestos use, but will provide an overview of eco-friendly alternatives available in the market, a list of procedures to minimize the risks of workers, and the safe removal and disposal of asbestos from all work sites.
Initially proposed in 2006, Congressman Kucinich’s efforts were stonewalled by the previous presidential administration. In March, Kucinich sent a formal letter to World Bank President, Robert Zoellick, questioning the delay in action.
“Asbestos is a highly toxic material that has no place in construction projects here or anywhere else, especially when viable alternatives are available. This guidance will reduce exposure and permanent lung damage to citizens and workers around the world,” stated Kucinich.
The asbestos scandal has a long history of corporations and governments doing little to prevent innocent workers and civilians from exposure. Thousands of American workers were exposed to asbestos during the twentieth century, with no indication as to the risks they were facing. Recent studies estimate that approximately 3,000 different types of commercial products still include asbestos.
Claiming more people than any other work-related disease, mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer which develops through exposure to asbestos fibers. Mesothelioma is caused by inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers which may cause cells to undergo changes that may result in cancer. With limited treatment and a short survival window, mesothelioma diagnosis usually results in an average survival rate of less than one year.
Congressman Kucinich has a history of battling corporations involved in the asbestos scandal. It was he who stepped up to negligent corporations who regularly bury evidence to protect themselves from lawsuits brought by those who passed away from occupational asbestos exposure. The efforts of Congressman Kucinich and the Asbestos Reduction Bill will hopefully create a more transparent and open discussion in regards to asbestos legislation.
“Global asbestos use is on the rise at the very time it should be eliminated. This report is a necessary first step toward reversing that trend,” added Kucinich.
Additional information about mesothelioma and asbestos exposure may be found through the Mesothelioma Cancer Center. –Asbestos.com
It’s women’s month!
“Support women every day of the year!”
Invoke Article 33 of the ILO constitution
against the military junta in Myanmar to carry out the 2021 ILO Commission of Inquiry recommendations against serious violations of Forced Labour and Freedom of Association protocols.
Accept National Unity Government
(NUG) of Myanmar.
Reject Military!
#WearMask #WashHands #Distancing #TakePicturesVideos
Monthly Observances:
Women’s Role in History Month
Weekly Observances:
Week 1: Environmental Week
Women’s Week
Week 3: Philippine Industry and Made-in-the-Philippines
Products Week
Last Week: Protection and Gender-Fair Treatment
of the Girl Child Week
Daily Observances:
March 8: Women’s Rights and
International Peace Day;
National Women’s Day
Mar 4— Employee Appreciation Day
Mar 15 — World Consumer Rights Day
Mar 18 — Global Recycling Day
Mar 21 — International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Mar 23 — International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims
Mar 25 — International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade
Mar 27 — Earth Hour
