VietNamNet Bridge – The authorities of the southern province of Binh Duong are shutting down all 142 brick kilns using outdated technology this month to prevent air pollution.

The Vice Chair of Binh Duong, Mr. Tran Thanh Liem, says that these brick kilns belong to 107 private enterprises. They will be closed for causing environmental pollution and for other violations in land use, registration, mining activities, and other areas.

The official says this move was done to implement the decision of Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung on putting an end to the operation of brick kilns using outdated technology in Binh Duong.

According to Binh Duong authorities, the Hoffman brick kilns have many limitations. Workers have to work in hot temperatures and dust that seriously affect their health. The brick kilns also cause pollution to the surrounding residential area.

"At the wishes of the owners of brick kilns, the province has extended the operational period for Hoffman kilns until June 30 in order to help them use all facilities and materials and recover capital," says Vice President Tran Thanh Liem said. He also said the local government would ensure social welfare for 4,000 workers of these kilns.

The traditional brick kilns have existed in Binh Duong for 100 years but they are no longer suitable for modern life and the environment. Since 2005, Binh Duong has displaced all brick and pottery kilns from residential areas.

The province is now determined to close all brick kilns using obsolete technology. It plans to increase the percentage of unburnt construction materials to 25% by 2015 and to 50% by 2020.

Xuan Son