What is a potential health risk of improper handling of asbestos waste?

Improper handling of asbestos waste poses a significant health risk primarily due to the release of asbestos fibers into the air. When these fibers are inhaled, they can lead to serious respiratory illnesses, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Asbestos is known for its durability and resistance to heat, which is why it was widely used in construction materials; however, when these materials are disturbed or improperly disposed of, the tiny, respirable fibers can become airborne. This makes respiratory illnesses a primary concern for not only workers handling asbestos but also for the surrounding community if proper safety measures are not taken.

The other options do not directly address the immediate health consequences associated with asbestos exposure. Increased productivity may be a goal in some contexts, but it has no connection to the hazards of inadequate asbestos management. Environmental degradation could certainly occur as a result of improper disposal practices, but it does not encapsulate the direct health impacts caused by inhaling asbestos particles. Therefore, the focus on respiratory illnesses highlights the most critical health risk involved in the mishandling of asbestos waste.