Background
Bangladesh is not a producer of PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls). However, several transformers containing PCBs were imported into Bangladesh during the 1970s and 1980s for electricity supply. Moreover, as transformers are used over a long period, the amount of oil in them decreases. In such cases, it becomes necessary to refill the transformer oil. Often, oil from older transformers and oil from relatively newer transformers are mixed together and centrifuged before being refilled into the transformer. If the oil from the old transformer contains PCBs, it can contaminate the oil of other transformers as well.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) are highly harmful industrial chemical compounds classified globally as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) because they do not easily break down and can remain in the environment for decades. Their toxic effects on human health, ecosystems, and food chains make them a critical concern in environmental management. Historically, PCBs were widely used for their strong heat-resistant properties, especially as cooling agents in transformer oil. Like many countries, Bangladesh once imported electrical transformers containing PCB-based oil, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s.
Objective
The overall objective is to foster a skilled and competent women youth workforce, leading to employment opportunities. By job and self-employment, for sustainable livelihoods and economic well-being.
- Raise awareness of the environmental and health hazards posed by PCBs.
- Promote stakeholder collaboration for safe PCB management, particularly among power sector organizations. And ministry of electricity, fuel and
- Facilitate compliance with national and international regulations, such as the Stockholm Convention.
- Foster trust and transparency in PCB management initiatives, like the GEF and UNIDO-supported project in Bangladesh.
| Project Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Environmentally sound development of the power sector with the final disposal of poly Chlorinated bi-phenyls (PCBs) Project |
| Department/Ministry | Department of Environment Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change |
| Implement Agency | TMSS ICT Limited |
| Location | Shylet Mymanshing, Dhaka, Narayanganj, rajshahi, and Rangpur Districts. |
| Project Implementation Period | FY 2022-2025 |
| Beneficiary | Overall Bangladesh |
