The Environment and Social Development Organization (ESDO) successfully hosted a report launching and press briefing event to unveil its latest investigative study titled “Toxic Playtime: Uncovering Heavy Metals in Children’s Plastic Toys.” The event took place on 17 July 2025 in Dhaka, drawing participation from high-level government representatives, environmental experts, public health professionals, and prominent media houses.
About the Study
The study, conducted using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) technology in collaboration with BAN Toxics (Philippines), analyzed 70 brightly colored plastic toys collected from Dhaka’s largest toy hub, Chawkbazar. The findings revealed a shocking presence of lead, cadmium, mercury, and chromium in toys meant for children.
Key Findings at a Glance
- Over 70% of tested toys exceeded international safety limits for heavy metals
- One toy car from Aman Toy Garden contained:
- Lead: 2,350 ppm (26x the limit)
- Mercury: 1,080 ppm (18x the limit)
- Chromium: 1,400 ppm (23x the limit)
- Brightly colored toys (red, yellow, orange) were the most toxic
- Locally produced toys were found to be more hazardous than imported ones
- 100% of toys from Aman Toy Garden, Khokon Plastick Products, and Shahjalal Toys Gallery exceeded permissible limits
- 20% of toys contained PVC and flame retardants
Voices from the Event
Syed Marghub Morshed, Chairperson of ESDO and Former Secretary to the Government of Bangladesh:
“Safe toys are not a luxury—they are a fundamental right. We must not compromise on our children’s health and future.”
Dr. Shahriar Hossain, Senior Technical Advisor, ESDO:
“Toys bring joy, but that joy must not come with lifelong harm. We need immediate action for toxic-free toys.”
Prof. Dr. Md. Abul Hashem, Former Chairman, Department of Chemistry, Jahangirnagar University:
“This study confirms our worst fears. Our children are being exposed to neurotoxins that could severely impact their development.”
Md. Manjurul Karim, Assistant Director, BSTI:
“We have already drafted safety guidelines and plan to issue a mandatory SRO to regulate toxic substances in toys.”
Kazi Sumon, Senior Chemist, Department of Environment:
“This study provides the evidence we need to push for stricter policies and effective enforcement.”
Thony Dizon, Advocacy Officer, BAN Toxics:
“Bangladesh must align its toy safety regulations with global standards. The protection of children should not be delayed.”
Siddika Sultana, Executive Director, ESDO:
“This is not just a regulatory failure—it’s a violation of children’s rights. The time to act is now.”
Way Forward: Recommended Actions
- Ban the use of toxic chemicals in toys
- Introduce mandatory testing and product labeling
- Align national regulations with global safety standards
- Establish strong inter-ministerial coordination
- Hold manufacturers accountable for non-compliance
- Ensure equal protection for children across all socioeconomic groups
Media & Stakeholder Engagement
The event was well-attended by national media representatives, whose presence helped amplify the urgency of this public health and child safety issue. The collective voice from civil society, academia, and government institutions called for immediate and coordinated action.
