This seems like a really odd article, they gloss over the fact that asbestos causes lung problems as it stays in the lung and basically cuts it to pieces. I don't believe it is the chemical composition of asbestos that causes the issues (not 100% on that) but the damage it does.
It's a bit like saying knife crime causes lots of injuries and deaths and we've now realised people have knives at home so maybe they'll start suffering similar issues. I know that's an over simplification and not a perfect comparison, but you get the point.
The article also mentions multiple times that there is no clear evidence of issues caused via ingestion. I agree though that more research should be done but articles like this will unnecessarily worry people that aren't aware there are lots of AC pipes and how asbestos causes illnesses.
Most water pipes these days are plastic, are micro plastics likely to be better or worse in the long run?
Whilst I might sound like someone that works for big asbestos I'm not! I do work in the water industry though so possibly this influences my opinion slightly as I was already aware of the amount of AC pipes.
I'm not saying I'm certain it isn't bad, but there article itself points out that none of the studies done have shown any evidence yet.
Also, I think it's a similar comparison to snake venom, deadly when injected but usually harmless when ingested.