Asbestos is a toxic and carcinogenic substance present everywhere in our environment. This report from the Parliamentary Office for the evaluation of scientific and technological choices reviews current scientific knowledge without evading the uncertainties that persist. Since 1 January 1997, the use of asbestos has been banned in our country. Notwithstanding this, the problem of asbestos remains unresolved. An overall inventory of all the asbestos present in our buildings and our environment must be drawn up in order to determine what actions will be necessary and in what order of priority. The treatment and removal of asbestos require great care and the report underlines the quality necessary wherever asbestosis is involved. It also considers the methods to be used for processing asbestos wastes. Prior consideration must be given to those suffering from asbestos-related diseases and to everyone that has been exposed to this hazard. The report therefore sets out ways and means of ensuring that the necessary public health measures can be given priority.