Background In Algeria, problems related to asbestos are a real concern. Its use is declining but many sites are contaminated . Remediation of these sites is difficult and asbestos waste disposal or treatment is complex and needs specific expertise. Algeria is attempting to address these issues by putting in place actions to reduce asbestos contamination, raise public awareness, and promote the implementation of preventative measures. In 1996, an multi-sectoral consultative committee was established under a Health Ministry initiative and legislation relating to the prevention of asbestos risks was published in 1999. However,lack of capacities and numerous obstacles still exist: absence of regulations fixing limit-values, of laboratories for analyses, of specific landfills... Objectives The objective of the project was to create a dedicated structure to manage the problems of asbestos as a whole, from the promotion of preventative measures, through to the evaluation of the environmental dimension in land-use planning, to the implementation of remediation projects. Key activities planned included: - Data collection to enable priority-setting; - Definition of an appropriate structure to address the priority issues; - Identification of staff to participate in theoretical and practical training; - Production of a comprehensive manual; and - Set-up of a prototype laboratory for analysis. Results The project encountered various problems: after beginning later than foreseen, serious difficulties arose with one of the partner and the project stopped.