Which of the following substances is considered hazardous?

Asbestos is considered hazardous due to its fibrous mineral composition, which can pose serious health risks when inhaled. Exposure to asbestos can lead to severe respiratory diseases including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, a type of cancer specifically linked to asbestos exposure. The material has been widely banned or heavily regulated in many countries due to these health risks.

The other substances listed—plastic waste, organic materials, and biodegradable products—while they can have environmental impacts, do not carry the same level of immediate health hazards associated with asbestos. For example, while plastic waste contributes to pollution and can endanger wildlife, it does not have the same acute health effects on humans as asbestos does. Organic materials and biodegradable products are generally viewed as safer and more environmentally friendly, particularly when managed appropriately. Hence, asbestos stands out distinctly as the hazardous substance in this context.