©Thomas Cristofoletti / Ruom for Unearthed
Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What are some international brands that you know or are familiar with?
- When you think about purchasing products from international brands, what factors or qualities are important to you before deciding to buy from them?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- reveal /ri-VEEL/
- highlight /HAHY-lahyt/
- brand /brand/
- chemical /KEM-i-kuhl/
- comment /KOM-ent/
[verb] – to make known or show something that is surprising or that was previously secret
The investigation’s findings reveal significant discrepancies in the company’s financial records.
[verb] – to attract attention to or emphasize something important
The speaker aimed to highlight the significance of community engagement in addressing social issues.
[noun] – a type of product made by a particular company and sold under a particular name
The new brand of sneakers offers a combination of style and comfort appealing to athletes and casual wearers alike.
[noun] – any substance having a distinct molecular composition
The scientist studied the chemical to understand its properties and behavior in different environments.
[verb] – to express an opinion, provide feedback, or offer remarks about a particular topic, event, or situation
She decided to comment on the article by sharing her perspective on the topic discussed.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
A report from LICADHO, a local human rights group, recently revealed troubling practices in Cambodian brick factories. This report highlighted the use of waste materials from famous global brands like Adidas and Walmart, which are burned in kilns at several factories to save on fuel costs. This harmful practice has resulted in health issues among workers, including headaches, breathing problems, and complications during pregnancies.
The report by LICADHO was based on visits to 21 brick factories in Phnom Penh and nearby Kandal province, as well as discussions with current and former employees between April and September. It focused on the harmful effects of burning garment waste, warning about the release of harmful substances and high levels of pollutants in the ashes. Studies, such as a 2020 UN Development Programme report and a 2018 report by UK academics, also highlighted the dangers of burning garment waste, citing toxic elements and harmful chemicals in clothing scraps. Concerned brands like Primark and Lidl have started investigating the issue, with Adidas committing to checking if waste materials are being disposed of incorrectly. They stressed their strict environmental policies, directing waste to regulated plants or licensed recycling centers. Despite this, other organizations like WRAP, the Cambodian Ministry of Environment, and Sarom Trading Co. Ltd. have not yet commented on the matter.
The report by LICADHO was based on visits to 21 brick factories in Phnom Penh and nearby Kandal province, as well as discussions with current and former employees between April and September. It focused on the harmful effects of burning garment waste, warning about the release of harmful substances and high levels of pollutants in the ashes. Studies, such as a 2020 UN Development Programme report and a 2018 report by UK academics, also highlighted the dangers of burning garment waste, citing toxic elements and harmful chemicals in clothing scraps. Concerned brands like Primark and Lidl have started investigating the issue, with Adidas committing to checking if waste materials are being disposed of incorrectly. They stressed their strict environmental policies, directing waste to regulated plants or licensed recycling centers. Despite this, other organizations like WRAP, the Cambodian Ministry of Environment, and Sarom Trading Co. Ltd. have not yet commented on the matter.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What did the recent report by LICADHO reveal about practices in Cambodian brick factories, and how were famous global brands involved?
- What health issues have arisen among workers in these brick factories, as highlighted in the report?
- How many brick factories were visited and over what period was the LICADHO report conducted?
- What were the main concerns outlined in the LICADHO report regarding the burning of garment waste in brick factories?
- Besides LICADHO’s report, what other studies emphasized the dangers of burning garment waste, and what did they reveal about this practice?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you seen or heard about any harmful situations in factories that affected people’s health, like the issues mentioned in the LICADHO report about Cambodian brick factories? If yes, how did this change your thoughts about responsible production? If not, can you recall other cases or information you’ve encountered regarding the impacts of unsustainable manufacturing practices?
- Have you or someone you know faced health problems due to work conditions or exposure to harmful substances, similar to the reported issues in Cambodian brick factories? If yes, how did this affect your view on workplace safety? If not, what steps do you think are important for safer work environments?
- Do you think the health impact of bad factory practices on workers is a major concern that needs immediate attention?
- How can global rules ensure safer waste disposal in factories to address worker health issues in countries like Cambodia? What actions could make these rules effective worldwide?
- What can consumers do to make companies prioritize workers’ health and safety, as mentioned in the LICADHO report? How might consumer choices push businesses to adopt better practices for worker well-being?