The link between asbestos and mesothelioma has been well established for years and has led many countries — including Croatia — to ban the material. So, it’s no surprise that when a 50-year-old asbestos-contaminated Italian ferry arrived in Split, Croatia, it caused public outrage. The Moby Drea contains an estimated 350 tons of asbestos, and when residents heard that a local shipyard was to remove asbestos-containing fireproofing walls, they immediately launched a protest.
Fears of Mesothelioma Spark Protest
In light of scientific data about asbestos’s role in mesothelioma and other serious illnesses, Croatia banned the production, trade, and use of asbestos and asbestos-containing materials in 2006, and the government placed the mineral on the Ministry of Health’s Official List of Toxic Materials. Despite this, a contract was signed to do “repair” work at a shipbuilding facility in Split. Town residents say this represents significant regulatory oversight failures by both government authorities and inspectorates.
A grassroots initiative called “Healthy Split” began holding protests against the vessel’s presence, sparked by fears of mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other health repercussions in the future. They have declared an “unequivocal and resolute stance” against the ship, arguing that Split is “not an industrial zone, but a city of people, children, tourists, and nature.” Hundreds of supporters joined the rally, which local journalist Marco Birolini described as a “popular uprising” against a “floating bomb.”
Official Response and Political Action Cites Mesothelioma Risk
In response to the public outcry and concerns about mesothelioma and other long-term risks arising from asbestos, the Ministry of the Sea, Transport, and Infrastructure ordered the ship removed from Croatian waters. Environmental activists declared the decision a major victory, and Split’s newly elected Mayor Tomislav Šuta concurred, saying that the situation had been “completely unacceptable.”
Unfortunately, before the decision was handed down, work had already begun on clearing the ship’s 400 passenger cabins, putting approximately 45 workers at risk for asbestos-related diseases. This is a particular concern, as there is a risk that the shipyard where the preliminary work had been done may declare bankruptcy in September 2025, potentially leaving workers vulnerable to future asbestos-related health issues without recourse.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net are here to help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608 to learn more.
