Earlier this year, DBL Ceramics launched its “TileChalk” initiative in collaboration with POP5, converting residue sludge from its water recycling process into classroom chalk for underserved schools across Bangladesh.
The company has operated with a sustainability focus, using water treatment plants that recycle all wastewater and applying zero-waste manufacturing practices. During water recycling at its ceramics plant, DBL found that a type of residue sludge remained that could not be discharged into landfills without risking soil and water contamination.
DBL conducted six months of research and worked with chalk manufacturers to re-engineer the residue sludge into chalk sticks that are described as safe, durable, and affordable to produce.
The first batches were distributed through partner NGOs and reached more than 100 underserved schools across Bangladesh. DBL also converted broken tiles into lightweight slates, reviving a classroom practice from the past. The initiative reduces industrial waste while supplying classroom materials.
“Education should never harm the environment,” said a DBL spokesperson. “With TileChalk, we’ve turned waste into a resource that helps children learn while protecting the planet.”
To scale the impact, DBL made the formula for TileChalk open-source and even sent letters to competitors, urging them to adopt similar practices. Additionally, DBL Ceramics signed MoUs with local chalk manufacturers to give them raw material free of charge in order to revive the dying industry.
TileChalk has already captured wide attention across schools, NGOs, and media circles, proving that sustainability and social good can co-exist in powerful ways. By breathing new life into chalk and slates, DBL is not just shaping tiles—it’s shaping a greener, smarter future for education in Bangladesh.
DBL Ceramics is one of Bangladesh’s leading tile manufacturers, committed to eco-conscious practices and continuous innovation. With a strong focus on sustainability, DBL redefines how manufacturing can positively impact both communities and the environment.
Credits
Project: TileChalk by DBL Ceramics
Client: DBL Ceramics Limited
Chief Business Officer: Mohammad Bayazed Bashar
Head Of Marketing: Didarul Alam Khan
Marketing Manager: Fairooz Zannat Fannana
Assistant Manager: Rubaiyat Shafat
Agency: POP 5
Chief Executive Officer: Masud Parvez
Chief Creative Officer: Mohammad Akrum Hossain Shaheen
Group Creative Director: Md Abdullah Al Rana
Group Creative Director: Tauhid Milton
Creative Manager: Waleed Rajamiya
Sr. Art Director: Esty Azizul Haque
Sr. Art Director: Md. Tahidul Islam
Creative Manager: S M Sohanur Rahman
Sr. Visualiser: Md. Ibrahim Hossain
Lead Animator: Khairul Hassan
Sr. Copywriter: Nabila Kabir
Copywriter: Zopari Lushai
Sr. Manager, Brand Service: Mashrur Majdi Sagor
Sr. Manager, Event & Activation: M. Morshed Alam
Sr. Executive, Brand Service: Nayma Islam Sneha
Management Trainee: Mahmudul Hasan
Graphic Designer: Mozammal Haque
Production House: Empty Yard
Director: Bayezid nil
DOP: MD Kowshikur Rahman
Edit: Muhammad Ullah
