Press Releases 2007

U.S., India Renew Agreement on Environmental Cooperation

April 2, 2007        (Hindi)  (Urdu)

NEW DELHI - The United States and India today signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) renewing their commitment to work cooperatively on environmental issues. The agreement was signed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Stephen L. Johnson and the Indian Minister of Environment and Forests A. Raja.

"The United States and India share in the commitment of being good global neighbors," said Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "Renewing this MOU strengthens EPA's vital collaborations with our Indian partners in order to continue to accelerate the pace of environmental progress in both our nations." The memorandum of understanding focuses on four priorities: air quality, water quality, toxic chemicals and waste and the management of environmental agencies.

Today's renewed commitment builds on significant accomplishments during the first five years of the memorandum of understanding.  Through collaboration with the Pune Municipal Corporation and the California Air Resources Board, the city developed a comprehensive air quality management plan that is currently being replicated in six cities throughout India.  Additionally, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is working with Pune and the state of Maharashtra to demonstrate the effectiveness of using technology to reduce air pollution from diesel buses and auto-rickshaws.

In Hyderabad, the Environmental Protection Agency is working with the World Health Organization and the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board to prevent drinking water contamination, protecting the health of 200,000 residents.

The renewed memorandum of understanding agrees to expand upon these successful initiatives to protect human health and the environment and promote sustainable development in India.