Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction, insulation, and other industrial applications until the late 1990s. It was discovered that exposure to asbestos fibers can cause a range of health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. As a result, asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999.

However, many buildings still contain asbestos, particularly those constructed before the 1980s. It's important to note that asbestos is only dangerous when it's disturbed and the fibers become airborne. Therefore, it's essential to dispose of any asbestos-containing materials safely to prevent the release of hazardous fibers.