Canadian Town of Asbestos Changing Its Name for Economics

Officials in Asbestos, Quebec, have been struggling for years to develop a new identity for the small Canadian mining town. Changing its name might do the trick. Mayor Hugues Grimard announced recently that his town in southeastern Quebec is looking for a name change in 2020, believing it could spark a much-needed economic recovery. The natural link between the town’s name and the toxic mineral — once so compelling — has become a roadblock to any future development. Exposure to asbestos can lead to deadly diseases, including mesothelioma cancer. “There is really a negative perception around asbestos,” Grimard told CBC News. “We have lost many businesses that don’t want to establish themselves here because of the name.” An Emotional Issue The historical significance of the connection between the town and mineral is profound, making the idea of a name change an emotional issue for the 6,800 residents today. For some, there is a history they want to preserve. For others, they want it to end. The once-coveted mineral was mined there for more than 120 years, creating thousands of high-paying jobs that led to the town’s naming and development, shaping its identity. The Jeffery Mine occupied one-sixth of the town’s 12 square miles. Owned and operated by Johns Manville for much of its history, it was once the largest open-pit mine in the world, providing asbestos that fueled the construction and manufacturing industries everywhere. It also fueled the pride that ...
Source: Asbestos and Mesothelioma News - Category: Environmental Health Authors: Source Type: news