DBL Ceramics and POP 5 Bangladesh turns waste into learning with TileChalk initiative

Tile manufacturing is often seen as a resource-heavy industry, but DBL Ceramics has once again proven that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. Through its TileChalk initiative, launched in partnership with POP 5 Bangladesh, DBL has transformed residue sludge, previously considered unusable waste, into something meaningful: classroom chalk for underserved schools across Bangladesh.

For years, DBL Ceramics has operated with a strong sustainability ethos. From water treatment plants that recycle 100% of wastewater to zero-waste manufacturing practices, the company has always sought new ways to reduce its environmental footprint. During water recycling at its ceramics plant, DBL discovered that a unique type of residue sludge remained—one that could not be discharged into landfills without risking soil and water contamination.

Instead of discarding it, DBL saw an opportunity. Through six months of research and collaboration with chalk manufacturers, the residue sludge was re-engineered into high-quality chalk sticks that are safe, durable, and affordable to produce.

The first batches of TileChalk were distributed through partner NGOs, reaching over 100 underserved schools across Bangladesh. Alongside chalk, DBL also converted broken tiles into lightweight slates—reviving a sustainable classroom practice from the past. Together, these solutions not only reduce industrial waste but also make education more environmentally responsible.

“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