On the occasion of International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week 2022, Environment and Social Development Organization-ESDO, in collaboration with DGHS, Icddr’b, IEDCR, Pure Earth, UNICEF Bangladesh, and IPEN organized a human chain alongside a rally on October 22 to call for the complete banning of all lead-based paint in Bangladesh and the proper implementation of the existing law.

The International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week of Action, co-led by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN Environment Program (UNEP), was established to raise awareness of the widespread availability of lead paint. Every year, the last week of October is observed as International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (ILPPW). This year marks 10 years of lead paint eradication efforts. This year’s theme, “Say no to lead poisoning” acknowledges the increased urgency of action required to get rid of all sources of lead exposure.
Around 120 volunteers from Girls’ Guide, Green Voice, and students of different universities participated in this human chain and rally. Representatives from Icddr’b, Pure Earth, and, UNICEF Bangladesh were also present at the occasion.

The human chain started in front of the National Press Club, continued as a rally toward the High Court and TSC, and then ended with another human chain at the Central Shaheed Minar.