Washington, 2 April 2010

The US Environmental Protection Agency plans to work with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to address key international environmental challenges.  “The U.S. recognizes the importance of Asia in meeting today’s global environmental challenges,” said Michelle DePass, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of International and Tribal Affairs. “It is our hope that expanding our partnership with ADB will help focus the technical and financial resources necessary to address those challenges.”

In Washington, D.C. this week, DePass met with Rajat M. Nag, Managing Director General of ADB, to sign a new letter of intent between EPA and ADB.  The previous letter of intent was signed in April of 2005, and would have expired this month.  During the meeting, DePass and Nag discussed ways in which their cooperation could reinforce those Asian countries that are working to strengthen their environmental laws, ministries, and compliance mechanisms. They also explored ways to reduce the emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases in the region.

The letter of intent will cover cooperation from 2010-2015. It will initially cover air quality, safe drinking water, management of toxic substances, environmental governance, and water resource management.  Where EPA and ADB identify joint priorities, the letter of intent will provide a mechanism for ADB to access EPA technical expertise in the design and implementation of key initiatives.  Cooperation could include technical assistance, training, and joint project development.

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