Bangladesh:

The government has allocated $50 million for block brick traders, announced the Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Farhina Ahmed.

She mentioned that this funding has been designated within the Bangladesh Environmental Sustainability and Transformation project, which is being executed by the Department of Environment. It is intended to support individuals involved in the transition from conventional burnt bricks to environmentally friendly block bricks.

The environment secretary made these remarks as the chief guest during a workshop involving all stakeholders. The objective of this initiative is to encourage the use of block bricks in government construction projects, thereby reducing air pollution and preserving agricultural land.

Furthermore, she noted that the allocated funds will be utilized for various purposes, including providing incentives and training to those engaged in the shift to block bricks. The government is eager to facilitate this transition and extend its support to entrepreneurs of all kinds.

The secretary also emphasized the critical role of the private sector in ensuring sustainable development, including environmental improvements.

She pointed out that controlling brick kilns would lead to improved air quality, safeguarding biodiversity and natural resources. She expressed a willingness to welcome well-intentioned suggestions from stakeholders concerning citizen protection and the adoption of green technologies to fulfill national and international commitments for reducing carbon emissions.

In the pursuit of reducing air pollution and conserving agricultural land, various initiatives have already been initiated to promote the use of block bricks instead of traditional burnt bricks in various government construction projects. To achieve this goal, it is essential for both government and private construction sectors to actively embrace the use of block bricks.