The brick kilns emit toxic fumes containing suspended particulate matters rich in carbon particles and high concentration of carbon monoxides and oxides of sulphur (SOx) that are harmful to eye, lungs and throat.

These air pollutants stunt the mental and physical growth of children, the experts said at the seminar on 'Brick fields and its ill effect on environment'.

They also expressed concern over the growing number of brick fields, saying that the toxic fumes also affects crops and plants in the areas adjacent to brick fields.

The Legislative Support Service Project of Manabik Shahajya Sangstha (MSS) organised the seminar in the city in association with the European Commission. Parliament Members Begum Raushan Ershad, Prof. Shahidul Islam, Muhammad Shahiduzzaman, Faruk Khan and GM Kader took part in the seminar.

According to the keynote paper, the primary source of Sox -- the major pollutants in the air -- is traffic vehicles (55.8%), followed by brick manufacturing industry (28.8%). And the primary source of NOx (nitrogen oxides) pollutants is also traffic vehicle (54.5%) and brick manufacturing industry (8.8%).

About 8000 brick fields were set up in the country without any clear environmental guidelines, resulting in loss of fertility in agricultural lands, the experts said.

Also, nearly 25 to 26 per cent of the country's wood production are used for burning bricks every year, causing deforestation, they said.

Describing the laws concerning brick kilns as inconsistent, Shahidul Islam called for formulating new laws after a discussion with the experts and stake holders to curb environmental pollution.

Faruq Khan suggested introduction of modern technology in the brick manufacturing industry.

Dr. Mushfuqur Rahman, an expert on geological science, presented the keynote paper while Quamrul Islam Chowdhury, Chairperson of Forum of Environmental Journalists of Bangladesh (FEJB) moderated the seminar. Feroz M Hassan, president of MSS, and Dr Iftekhar Ahmed also spoke.