Abstract
The extraction of unsustainable natural resources like sand and topsoil for construction is disturbing ecological balance, affecting local hydrology and wildlife. The inter-governmental panel of climate change (IPCC) has discussed its adverse impacts worldwide and has restricted its extraction. This article has mooted some of its potential threats and remedies to combat climate change and other social issues associated with the brick industry. Bricks made of clay are commonly used as a building material for masonry works in densely populated South Asian countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. To make clay bricks, the topsoil of the floodplain area where most agriculture productivity is carried out is utilized in millions of tons every year. The main drawbacks of topsoil removal are the depletion of the seed bank, removing soil biota, and diminishing soil properties and functions. Furthermore, the process often involves burning firewood as emitting fuel CO
2
, SO
2
, NO
2,
and suspended particulate matter (SPM). Thus, the clay brick-making industry contributes to greenhouse gases directly affecting soil fertility. The primary focus of this review article is to promote research on flyash-based bricks for the brick industry and provide safe and cost-effective sustainable materials to substitute clay bricks. This review article presents the worldwide production of clay bricks and their harmful impact on the environment. The current and future scenarios on flyash, systematic literature review (SLR) on flyash-based bricks, the practical utility of clay and flyash-based bricks, and issues and opportunities were also discussed. The findings obtained from the past published studies on flyash-based bricks give an insight to the researchers. The review article also presents the prospects for researchers and designers.