What is the purpose of the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) concerning asbestos?

The National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) is specifically designed to manage and regulate air pollutants that are hazardous to human health and the environment, including asbestos. The primary purpose of NESHAP concerning asbestos is to control emissions during renovation and demolition activities because these situations can release asbestos fibers into the air, posing significant health risks.

By placing stringent regulations on how asbestos must be handled, including requirements for proper containment, removal, and disposal, NESHAP aims to minimize airborne asbestos emissions, thereby protecting public health and the environment from exposure to this dangerous material. This regulation is particularly critical since asbestos has long been associated with severe health issues, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, when inhaled.

The other options focus on different aspects that are not directly relevant to the specific purpose of NESHAP regarding asbestos. For instance, promoting recycling or mandating fireproof materials do not address the core concern of controlling air pollution related to asbestos during construction activities, and setting guidelines for insulation does not encompass the broader regulatory intent of managing emissions.