Thetford-Mines. Canada
These mines in Quebec produce asbestos, that fireproof material that’s been banned in several countries because of links to cancer. Oddly enough, Thetford-Mines continues producing asbestos, and even offers misguided visitors guided tours. You can visit the enormous open pit asbestos mine, which is still fully operational, and note that the miners there are not wearing any special protection, a bad sign for the workers, the townspeople and you the visitor. Some residential areas in the nearby town are littered with unhealthy piles of asbestos waste, reminiscent of Orwell’s description of the English coal mining towns of the early 20th century and their insalubrious conditions. The mine offers bus tours of the deadly environment during the summer months. Tickets are free.
