Asbestos Threat

Not long ago, while en route to a small village located on the outskirts of Kaunas, I had taken notice of the abundance of old but attractive ‘Tile Roofs’ that adorn so many homes and small
buildings.

An engineer and close family member informed me that they were of major concern because
many were made with large amounts of asbestos. Asbestos that remains undisturbed posses no significant health threats. The prolific use of asbestos in products such as roofing tiles, which are exposed to harsh outdoor elements can be a big problem.

As the sun, wind, and airborne pollutants slowly attack these tiles, asbestos fibers become detached and also airborne. The largest threat from exposure to asbestos is generally thought to
be associated from prolonged exposure, usually in a working environment. However, there are some that would argue that any exposure carries with it a potential, serious health risk.

The release of asbestos into the surrounding neighborhoods and properties can be drastically
reduced by “encapsulation”. This would be accomplished by applying a chemical ‘coating’
to bond to the exposed surfaces of the roof. However this would be an expensive undertaking,
and few property owners have the financial resources to pay for such projects. Removal and replacement of these roofs under controlled methods is preferable but far more costly.

I have not learned of any proposals or decisions having been made by the Republic of Lithuania
or Local Municipalities as to the creation, approval or funding of such a massive public health
project. I do however have faith in the well educated population and their ability to address such
issues. Providing they can overcome the barriers of bureaucracy.