Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials in the UK until the late 1990s. It was used in a variety of products, including insulation, flooring, roofing, and even in decorative finishes. However, asbestos is now known to be a hazardous substance that can cause serious health problems if inhaled, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos is often found in older buildings, particularly those built before the 1980s, but it is still found in some newer materials imported to the UK even today.