, Aug. 16 -- Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo on Sunday said the government will prioritise the use of concrete blocks over traditional bricks in public construction projects and explore ways to further expand their use.

"To protect agricultural land fertility, reduce air pollution and carbon emissions, and build a sustainable construction system, all ministries, government engineering departments, manufacturers and other stakeholders must work together in a coordinated manner, balancing environmental protection with the practical needs of the construction sector," he said.

Mintoo made the remarks while presiding over two separate meetings at the ministry's conference room on promoting eco-friendly const...