Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said that increasing the use of blocks in government construction projects will not only reduce air pollution but also help preserve agricultural land.

“This is a significant step toward sustainable development and requires collective efforts from all stakeholders,” she said.

Rizwana made the remarks at a consultation meeting at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Sunday.

The meeting focused on strategies to increase the use of blocks in public construction to mitigate air pollution and protect agricultural land.

Adilur Rahman Khan, Adviser to the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, and the Ministry of Industries, was also present as a special guest. 

The adviser remarked, "The use of blocks is not only environmentally friendly but also enhances the efficiency and sustainability of the construction sector. We are committed to coordinating with all relevant ministries and stakeholders to achieve this goal." 

She added, "This initiative marks a groundbreaking step in environmental conservation and sustainable development. We are dedicated to implementing this plan in collaboration with all concerned departments." 

The meeting discussed various policy supports to boost block production and usage. Key proposals included exempting blocks from VAT, reducing customs duties and taxes, and lowering import duties on machinery used for block production. 

In addition, the meeting highlighted the need to update the rate schedules of relevant organizations, such as LGED, the Department of Public Works, City Corporations, and Municipalities, to ensure the use of blocks in development projects. 

To maintain the quality of all types of blocks, the meeting emphasized the importance of setting national standards with the assistance of the Housing and Building Research Institute (HBRI) and the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI). 

The meeting was chaired by Dr. Farhina Ahmed, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.