Vas County prosecutors investigate asbestos contamination

The Vas County Chief Prosecutor's Office has confirmed an ongoing investigation into potential environmental crimes related to asbestos contamination in western Hungary. While no suspects have been identified yet, authorities have contacted Austrian officials for cooperation, as the pollutants are believed to originate from Austrian mines, possibly in the Burgenland region.

Environmental group Greenpeace had previously warned that construction materials from Austrian mines were causing serious pollution. Official measurements conducted by the Vas County Government Office confirmed that asbestos levels in the air exceeded safety limits.

Political discussions regarding the matter have included calls for the ‘polluter pays’ principle. While a three-billion forint asbestos remediation fund was announced in July, local leaders, such as the mayor of Nemény, have expressed frustration over the lack of progress and have begun seeking independent solutions.