It is certainly encouraging to learn that the government has a target to use concrete blocks in its all projects by 2025 and adopted a plan to close down the traditional brick kilns. With that said, it is fair to say that, with 2025 a year away, and with a reported 99% of the bricks in Bangladesh being produced by traditional brick kilns, it is safe to say that such a target is not just ambitious, but out of reach.
Bangladesh’s severe air pollution is well-documented by now, and the traditional brick kilns that surround our cities are among the most culpable contributors. These kilns, notorious for their high emissions of particulate matter and other pollutants, have always posed a significant threat to public health and the environment, contributing not only to the perpetual smog and haze in our cities but also are the reason for serious health impacts, especially on vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
It is extremely unfortunate that we appear no closer to eliminating them. Yet, to combat this issue, there is no alternative but to phase out traditional brick kilns and promote the use of eco-friendly concrete bricks in construction.
Eco-friendly concrete bricks offer a sustainable alternative that can help mitigate air pollution. These bricks are also more durable and have better thermal insulation properties, making them a more sustainable choice for construction.
Phasing out traditional brick kilns and promoting the use of eco-friendly concrete bricks will require a concerted effort from the government, construction industry, and other stakeholders. Providing incentives for the adoption of eco-friendly construction materials and enforcing stricter regulations on brick kilns to reduce emissions have to be the steps that are not just proposed, but also see appropriate implementation.
If Bangladesh is serious about becoming a respected economy on the global stage, then it must start with better construction approaches. Shifting from traditional bricks to concrete ones is the first step.
