BBC, ICIJ: asbestos industry ‘exporting an epidemic’ to developing world
The BBC and the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) investigated how a global network of lobbyists has spent nearly $100 million since the mid-1980s to preserve the market for asbestos, especially in the developing world where use of the cheap — but carcinogenic – building material is growing.
Among the key findings of their investigation:
“Despite waves of asbestos-related disease in North America, Europe, and Australia, bans or restrictions in 52 countries, piles of incriminating studies, and predictions of up to 10 million asbestos-related cancer deaths worldwide by 2030, the asbestos trade remains alive and well….
“More than two million metric tons of asbestos were mined worldwide in 2009 — led by Russia, China and Brazil….More than half that amount was exported to developing countries like India and Mexico.”
The news organizations in the project spent nine months poring through court filings, scientific studies and financial records, and interviewing health officials, industry representatives, scientists, victims, lawyers and activists. In the United States, they found, asbestos use is limited to brakes, gaskets and a few other products, and the industry has paid out $70 billion in damages and litigation costs.
Be sure to look at the project’s online presentation. It is clear, uncluttered, attractive and easy to navigate, and it incorporates multimedia and social media effectively. There’s even a link, as yet inactive, to buy the e-book of the project.
Today’s Tip: Don’t be daunted by stories about hazardous materials.
You don’t have to have the global reach of the BBC and ICIJ to look into chemicals. Starting in 2007, The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel tackled the issue of BPA, a controversial material used in baby bottles and other products. Its coverage was recognized as a 2009 Pulitzer Prize finalist.
In an interview, Susanne Rust, one of the reporters on that story, offered tips on staying organized. She also provided more ideas in a presentation, including using PubMed.gov to read scientific abstracts, during the Reynolds Center’s recent “Covering the Green Economy” seminar. | Video and presentation: Susanne Rust on covering chemicals
The CDC has a list of hazardous workplace chemicals. Look at the financial impact on the companies who make or use them. Pay attention to disclosures on SEC documents to see if lawsuits have been filed. Search the name of the chemical in Google Scholar to find academic sources.
