Uganda’s Brick-Burning Industry Under Scrutiny Over Rising Emissions and Deforestation

A new study has raised concerns over the environmental impact of Uganda’s brick-making industry, revealing significant emissions and widespread deforestation linked to traditional brick-burning practices.

The research, led by Dr. Nathan Kibwami highlights that fired bricks, used in nearly 80% of construction projects in Uganda, are produced using methods that release high levels of harmful gases into the atmosphere. The findings are expected to inform policy decisions by key government agencies, including the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Ministry of Water and Environment.

The study examined 63 brick kilns across Kampala, Mpigi, Mukono, and Wakiso districts. Using specialized monitoring equipment, researchers found that the brick-burning process emits pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

Carbon dioxide was identified as the most dominant emission, with concentrations far exceeding normal atmospheric levels. While global atmospheric CO₂ averages around 420 parts per million (ppm), emissions from brick kilns ranged as high as 91,785 ppm.

The study also found that brick production heavily depends on hardwood species such as eucalyptus, mango, and jackfruit. On average, each kiln consumed over 12 tonnes of wood per firing cycle.

Across the sampled kilns, this translated into approximately 800 tonnes of wood, equivalent to more than 800 trees, used in a single study period. The loss of these trees not only contributes to deforestation but also reduces the environment’s capacity to absorb carbon dioxide.

Data Gaps Hindering Policy Action

Despite the scale of emissions, researchers note that Uganda lacks sufficient data and regulatory frameworks to monitor air pollution from the construction sector. This gap makes it difficult for the country to meet its climate commitments and develop targeted mitigation strategies.

The study highlights that the absence of emissions data and monitoring systems limits the ability to enforce environmental standards.

Researchers have recommended integrating emissions monitoring into routine district environmental inspections and establishing clear standards for brick production.

They have also called for financial incentives such as low-interest loans and grants to help brick producers adopt cleaner technologies and improve kiln efficiency. Existing government initiatives like the Parish Development Model could be leveraged to support these transitions.

Researchers argue that modernizing brick production is critical to reducing environmental harm while sustaining Uganda’s growing construction sector.

“A policy focus on cleaner kiln technologies and real-time emissions monitoring will significantly reduce hazardous pollutants and environmental risks,” the study concludes.

As Uganda continues to urbanize, balancing infrastructure development with environmental sustainability remains a pressing challenge—one that experts say requires immediate and coordinated action.