Potential health risks and environmental impacts due to air pollution originating from brick kilns in Bangladesh Available to Purchase

Brick kilns are one of the main sources of air pollution in Bangladesh, emitting large amounts of pollutants that have serious health effects on the population. This study reviewed existing literature to observe the impact of brick kilns on air pollution and its impact on human health in Bangladesh. In Bangladesh, approximately 150 billion bricks are produced annually across 7000 brick kilns, making it the fourth largest brick producer globally. Major air pollutants emitted from brick kilns including PM_2.5, PM₁₀, NO_x, SO₂, CO, and CO₂ are way above the WHO standard, especially during the dry winter months. The health impacts of this pollution are very serious which increases the incidence of cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis, skin diseases, eye irritation, fatigue, and other respiratory problems. It is estimated that air pollution from brick kilns causes around 15,000 premature deaths and millions of illnesses annually in the Dhaka region alone. This paper is aimed to make a countrywide constructive analysis of major factors contributing to air pollution from brick kilns and their potential effects on the environment and human health. Additionally, it seeks to evaluate the current regulations and guidelines pertaining to this matter and offer suggestions for reducing pollution caused by brick kilns. However, While existing research has highlighted the significant contribution of brick kilns to air pollution in Bangladesh, particularly in Dhaka there appears to be a lack of research across the major cities in the country. This gap in research exhibits the need for a more thorough study into the nationwide effects of the brick kiln industry on air pollution.