Officials in Sydney, Australia, have discovered traces of asbestos at 34 public sites across the city in recent weeks. The toxic mineral was found in parks, hospitals, train stations, supermarkets, and schools, prompting temporary closures. However, the venue for Taylor Swift’s upcoming concert has been declared free of asbestos. The Environmental Protection Agency of New South Wales released the figures, including two new sites, both schools. The scandal has garnered international attention, especially since the authorities have been testing mulch on the grounds of Sydney Olympic Park, where Ms. Swift is scheduled to perform. However, the tests came back negative, and the city is ready to welcome Taylor Swift with open arms. Asbestos is a dangerous substance that can cause lung diseases if inhaled. Australia began to phase out asbestos in the 1980s and banned it completely in 2003. However, many homes built before the 1990s still contain asbestos. The authorities have stated that the asbestos found in recycled mulch presents a relatively small risk if undisturbed. The investigation included more than 100 officials from the state E.P.A. The agency has directed the Australian company that produces the mulch, Greenlife Resource Recovery, to stop supplying it until the investigation ends. Greenlife Resource Recovery has rejected blame, stating that testing had shown that its mulch was safe. Source from www.nytimes.com
