Poland is one of the countries in which asbestos was used very frequently in the building industry. Today we know that asbestos dust in the air causes cancer. Air quality in the Voivodship Malopolskie is seriously affected by asbestos dust emission and asbestos fibres in the air. The region around Szczucin is an example of an area whose inhabitants are subject to a considerable exposure to asbestos dust. In 1959, an asbestos cement plant was founded in Szczucin. It operated up to 1997. From 1959 until 1993 about 370'000 tons of asbestos were processed.

The project's overall objective is to protect the environment and to improve the living conditions of residents in the participating communes. It contributes to the implementation of the Polish government's asbestos policy (national asbestos elimination plan).

The direct beneficiary of this project is the Szczucin commune as the institution responsible for the implementation of the project. The inhabitants of renovated buildings are also benefitting directly. Indirect beneficiaries are the inhabitants of the 70 communes participating in the project as they will benefit from reduced exposure to asbestos fibers.

• Renewal of the roofs and removal of remaining asbestos waste (for example from pipes) from private and public buildings.
• Transport of asbestos containing materials and subsequent safe storage on already existing hazardous waste landfills.
• Awareness raising regarding risks associated with asbestos and promotion of safe asbestos removal and neutralization: mass media and e-campaigns, educational campaigns in schools and trainings for employees of the communes.

Résultats obtenus:  

• The removal of 48,813 tons of asbestos from 10,148 buildings has protected 21,248 people against direct exposure to asbestos.
• More than 70,000 persons participated in information events. One of the most effective communication methods was the educational campaign organizing more than 400 meetings in 167 schools. As a result, the project largely contributed to increasing public awareness of the asbestos threat.

Phase 4 16.12.2009 - 31.03.2017   (Completed)