USAID Administrator Samantha Power and EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan has taken a step towards combating global environmental issues by signing a Memorandum of Understanding.
This memorandum formalizes their shared commitment to collaboration in tackling pressing challenges such as climate change, pollution, and lead poisoning.
The partnership, solidified through the memorandum, targets critical issues affecting communities worldwide. Of particular concern is the widespread problem of lead poisoning, which affects approximately one in three children globally and contributes to the deaths of over 1.6 million people annually, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Administrator Power advocates for stringent regulations to reduce lead exposure in various consumer products, including paint, spices, and cosmetics.
Furthermore, the partnership focuses on promoting the responsible management of critical minerals essential for powering green energy technologies.
With the increasing demand for these minerals amidst the global transition to sustainable energy sources, USAID and EPA are collaborating to establish robust standards for their extraction and management.
Building on their history of successful collaboration on environmental initiatives, USAID and EPA are poised to combine their expertise and resources to strengthen global environmental protection efforts.
By leveraging USAID’s international leadership and on-the-ground programs alongside EPA’s technical proficiency, the partnership aims to enhance capacities for environmental and public health protection worldwide, fostering a more equitable and sustainable future.
