Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials from the 1950s to the 1980s. It was highly prized for its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and fire. However, it has since been proven to cause a range of serious health conditions, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.

Asbestos was commonly used in building materials such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and drywall, among others. As these materials age and decay, they can release asbestos fibers into the air, where they can be inhaled by humans and animals.