In Bangladesh, where coal-fired brick kilns fill the skies with thick smoke each winter, researchers have discovered a simple trick that could cut pollution and save money. By stacking bricks in a zig-zag pattern and feeding coal more consistently, kiln operators saw major improvements: a 23% drop in fuel use and emissions reduced by 20%.
These tiny changes led to better working conditions, stronger bricks, and big savings for kiln owners—up to $40,000 per season. With over 8,000 kilns contributing to some of the worst air pollution in the world, researchers are now teaming up with the Bangladeshi government to expand training nationwide.