One of the largest falls in asbestos waste has been seen in Rotherham
Waste of the killer product decreased by nearly 80 per cent in one year
One of the largest decreases in asbestos waste has been recorded in Rotherham - with a fall of 78.95 per cent between 2024 and 2025.
Waste management experts BusinessWaste.co.uk used Environment Agency hazardous waste data to determine how asbestos waste tonnage has changed across England.
The study found that Rotherham borough saw the sixth largest decrease in the country with a reduction from 2,839.58 tonnes in 2024 to 597.66 tonnes in 2025.
Six of the ten biggest percentage decreases were seen in the South East, including the top three positions. Slough was in first place with a percentage decrease at 93.32 per cent.
Mark Hall, expert at BusinessWaste.co.uk, said:“Asbestos remains present in a lot of older buildings and more than 25 years after asbestos was banned in the UK, and as a result, we’re still dealing with its legacy. The important thing is that this waste is disposed of correctly and recorded through official channels.
“It’s likely we’ll continue to see asbestos waste for many years to come.
“Ideally we want to see that asbestos is being identified before work begins, that it is handled by trained professionals and disposed of via authorised facilities.
“Concern for public safety arises when these systems are bypassed.
“It’s important that we educate people about the dangers of asbestos, how to identify where it may be present, and what to do if you think you have uncovered hazardous material in the home or at work.
“Asbestos is more likely to be found in properties built or refurbished before 2000, and it’s difficult to be identified by sight alone; therefore, it's essential to consult professionals.”
The Advertiser has approached Rotherham Council for a comment.