Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials throughout the 20th century. It was valued for its strength, durability, and resistance to fire and corrosion. However, it was later discovered that asbestos can cause serious health problems when its fibers are inhaled.

Asbestos exposure can lead to a variety of respiratory diseases, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Because of these health risks, it is important to properly dispose of any asbestos-containing materials in order to prevent the fibers from becoming airborne and potentially causing harm.