Understanding Just Transition in Bangladesh: Does Shift to Improved Brick Kilns lead to Well-being of Brick Workers?

Abstract

Brick kilns are one of the leading sources of air pollution in Bangladesh emitting carbon dioxide, particulate matter, and other pollutants. The Government of Bangladesh has recognized in its Nationally Determined Contributions (2021) that reforming the brick industry is vital for fulfilling its emission-reduction commitments. It proposes to ban pollution-intensive technologies like Fixed Chimney Kilns (FCKs) in favor of relatively improved technologies like Vertical Shaft Brick Kilns (VSBKs). Current research on brick kilns has largely focused on brick kiln technology transition. However, a key question persists – What are the consequences of transitioning to improved brick manufacturing for thousands of vulnerable low-income unskilled workers employed by the industry? The overall objective of this study is to examine the social and economic well-being of brick kiln workers in the wake of the recent push to transition to improved brick kiln technologies in Dhaka. The study examines the following specific aims: Is there a significant difference in access to decent work standards, financial well-being, and social networks of informal daily wage workers, who are employed in improved brick kilns relative to those in traditional kilns? The study also examines if the local air quality significantly improves by transitioning to improved brick kilns.

Students Trained 

• 1 Postdoctoral Student 
  • Spencer Sandberg