Asbestos production increases despite WHO opposition.

摘要

More than 40 countries-including all members of the European Union-have banned the use of white asbestos (also known as chrysotile): the only form of asbestos that is still being mined. Other countries have drastically reduced their consumption. Nonetheless, production levels are not declining; and have stabilised at roughly 2-2 million metric tonnes a year, around the same level they stood at in I960. Enormous development projects in China and India are largely responsible; while Thailand has the highest per capita consumption of asbestos. Canada was formerly the world's leading producer of chrysotile; and its continuing support for the industry has raised concern.