Diversion of Asbestos-Containing Waste from Landfilling: Opportunities and Challenges
Jānis Butkevičs, Dzintra Atstāja
Abstract
The management of asbestos-containing waste (ACW) presents a significant environmental challenge due to the material’s widespread historical use and persistent toxicity. While landfilling remains the primary disposal method, it poses long-term environmental risks and conflicts with circular economy principles. Across Europe, large quantities of asbestos remain in building stock, including approximately 15 million tons in Poland, 4.5 million tons in Lithuania, and 1 million tons in Latvia. This study examines Latvia’s ACW management challenges and opportunities, combining theoretical analysis with empirical research. A large-scale survey (n = 2005) revealed significant gaps in public knowledge, with 28% of respondents willing to reuse asbestos-containing roofing despite recognizing its hazards, highlighting a critical disconnect between awareness and behavior. The study also assessed Latvia’s pilot Asbestos Removal Program, demonstrating high public demand but limited funding capacity. Thermal treatment, particularly plasma vitrification, was identified as the most mature alternative to landfilling, though implementation barriers include high capital costs and specialized expertise requirements. Findings emphasize the need for sustainable financing mechanisms, such as a differentiated landfill tax, to ensure the long-term viability of asbestos removal initiatives. Latvia’s experience provides valuable insights for other nations seeking to mitigate ACW-related health and environmental risks through improved policy frameworks and practical management solutions.