Disposal of Asbestos Waste in Pacific Island Countries/Territories : A Position Paper, March 2025

Abstract

This Position Paper highlights the problem of asbestos disposal in the Pacific region, including Timor Leste. There remains a significant amount of legacy asbestos containing material (ACM) to be managed and the safe disposal of ACM waste is the focus of this paper. Once landfilled or entombed, the asbestos containing material (ACM) should not be disturbed. A PESTLE analysis little doubt that local burial of asbestos waste, conducted and maintained under strict health and safety protocols, is the best solution to the legacy issues of ACM in Pacific Island countries. However, some challenges remain, including political and community resistance, cultural concerns, and securing adequate funding for infrastructure.