Impact of EPA enforcement activities on emission reduction of brick kilns in Punjab

Abstract

This study aimed to quantify the reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) and particulate matter (PM) emissions from the brick manufacturing sector in Punjab, Pakistan, following the increased adoption of Zigzag technology. Utilizing emission factors from our previous research by Sheikh I.H. et al. (2024), the study estimated emissions from brick kilns in 2019, assuming all kilns were traditional BTK type. Subsequently, considering the increased adoption of Zigzag kilns after June 2024 due to enhanced enforcement by the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency, emissions were recalculated based on the technology intervention in brick kilns. The results demonstrated a significant reduction, with a 16.08% decrease in GHG emissions and a 29.32% decrease in PM emissions from 2019 to December 2024. These findings highlight the positive environmental impact of the transition to Zigzag technology and emphasize the importance of continued policy enforcement and technological advancements in mitigating emissions from the brick industry.