Library

This report presents the results of a major research project into the total lead content of solvent-based paints for home use available on the market in 15 African countries: Benin, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Guinea, Kenya, Morocco, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda and Zambia. It also presents background information on the health impacts of lead paint, especially for children; a review of national policy frameworks that are in place on lead paint, and it provides a strong justification for adopting and enforcing further regulatory controls in these countries.

This article reports on the outcome of an African regional workshop on generating support for phasing out lead in paint. The workshop recommended a lead limit of 90 ppm. In Nigeria, the 90 ppm lead standard has been in place since 2016 and a roadmap on lead paint elimination and management has been adopted.

This article from the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology notes it is not uncommon for so-called green building to meet the highest criteria for energy efficiency and be built with materials that contain chemicals hazardous to occupant health. This journal article provides key examples of how scientists have promoted healthy building practices and highlights additional research opportunities.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are known organic pollutants with adverse health effects on humans and the ecosystem. This paper synthesises literature about the status of the pollutants and their precursors, identifies knowledge gaps and discusses future perspectives on the study of PFASs in Africa.

Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substance (PFAS) contamination has been found in the construction spoil of many major projects, and there is growing concern about the health and environmental implications of these “forever” chemicals. This study highlights the common issues that are associated with the management of PFAS contamination in the construction industry, and proposes a mechanism for improved regulation.

Two international Conventions from the International Labor Organization (ILO; C162 Asbestos Convention) and the UN (Basel Convention) offer governments guidelines for achieving a total asbestos ban policy, but the long-term effect of these Conventions on policy implementation remains unknown. This study assessed data on asbestos bans in 108 countries and confirms that adoption of both the C162 Asbestos Convention and the Basel Convention facilitates countries in moving towards a total asbestos ban.

This webpage shows which countries around the world have implemented national asbestos bans.

This webpage summarises actions undertaken by the US Environmental Protection Agency to protect the public from exposure to asbestos under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). One of EPA’s priorities is to protect the public from adverse health effects of asbestos, a known carcinogen.