Asbestos is a mineral that has been used in the construction industry since the early 20th century for its fire resistance, durability, and insulating properties. However, it has since been discovered that asbestos is carcinogenic, causing diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.

The use of asbestos-containing materials, known as ACMs, was only officially banned in the UK in 1999. However, many buildings in Canford Bottom still contain asbestos-containing materials, posing a significant health risk to those who work or live there.