The Asbestos Connection

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Asbestos is banned in many countries, yet in Quebec, where the asbestos lobby is strongest, the mineral is still mined for export. In this program documentary filmmaker Inge Altemeier investigates the continued use of asbestos, following a trail that begins at a Canadian chrysotile plant and ends in a Chinese factory where unprotected workers assemble products containing the deadly mineral. Lobbyists say chrysotile, a variety of asbestos, is safe if used properly; they are working hard to prevent a worldwide trading ban, even as billions are spent on cleaning up contaminated sites. Altemeier speaks with activist Sandy Kinart, whose husband died of mesothelioma, and to researchers and asbestos specialists.