Contributed by Joe Lederman Mesothelioma Cancer Center . Joe is an Awareness Coordinator at the Mesothelioma Cancer center. for more information contact- joe@asbestos.com
As responsible habitants of Earth, we are obligated to nurture and sustain this planet. With a growing amount of education and technology in Eco-sustainable resources, many states in the United States are leading the way in the green paradigm. In the world of home remodeling and improvements, there are many things that should be taken into consideration. Asbestos was highly regarded throughout the 20th century as an ideal building and construction material. It’s fire resistant, durable and versatile qualities made it sought out by many industries. Asbestos was used in industrial products such as insulation, piping, roofing and flooring products.
Many homes, buildings and public facilities may still contain asbestos and other hazardous materials. If these materials are suspected, it is recommended for home owners or re modelers to hire professional inspectors or abatement contractors who can determine the legitimacy of danger. If it is determined that asbestos should be removed, leave it un-disturbed until a licensed contractor can safely remove the material. There are many green, eco-friendly materials that replace the need for asbestos and can reduce energy costs annually.
Although not all asbestos poses a risk, long term exposure to damaged asbestos fibers can cause severe lung ailments such as asbestosis and malignant mesothelioma. This form of asbestos lung cancer accounts for three percent of cancer diagnoses in the United States. Mesothelioma treatment has varied affects on patients and many variables can affect patient prognosis. These include latency period, age of diagnosis and cigarette smoking. The asbestos scandal was perpetuated by the asbestos industry and various corporate sectors in the country who buried any evidence that suggested the health concerns associated with asbestos.
GREEN better for your Pocket
Most people are unaware to the fact that eco-friendly products can cut energy costs by 25 to 35 % per year. Currently, many cities in the U.S. have created lumberyards which re-store where you can purchase recycled building materials that are authentically strong and inexpensive. . Rather than expensive and mal-treated wood, interior walls can be made from steel and concrete, avoiding many of the problems associated with asbestos and other insulation methods. Green alternatives to asbestos include the use of cotton fiber, lcynene foam and cellulose.
Due to these recycled materials, waste is decreasing in crowded landfills. Proper insulation will save you on bills. Conducting a study in 2003, the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) conducted a study which estimated a new savings of $50-$65 per square foot for positively constructed green buildings. As education and technology of green sustainable practices increase, the numbers will continue to rise.
Living in a world where environmental sustainability is a vital concern to the future of mankind, it is important to take note of the consequences of improper building materials and environmental degradation. These asbestos alternatives allow for a healthy, safe home, free of health damaging materials.