The President & CEO of Pure Earth, along with implementing partners and funding advisors, are scheduled to visit Ghana from July 8 to 14, 2025.
Mr. Andrew McCartor, President and CEO of Pure Earth, will be joined by Ms. Nida Parks, Chief of Staff.
A major highlight of the visit will be the inauguration of the Lead Technical Working Group, a multi-stakeholder platform established to enhance coordination and the national response to lead pollution.
“This visit highlights our commitment to working in Ghana to tackle toxic pollution. Together, we aim to advance practical solutions that protect communities and ensure healthier futures for children,” said Mr. McCartor.
Pure Earth Country Director, Mr. Esmond Wisdom Quansah, added, “We look forward to deepening partnerships and showcasing progress as we work towards a cleaner, safer environment for all Ghanaians.”
Lead and mercury pollution remain critical environmental health threats, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The Toxic Truth report by Pure Earth and UNICEF estimates that 1 in 3 children globally; approximately 800 million; have blood lead levels at or above 5 mcg/dL, levels known to cause irreversible health effects including neurological damage.
Research published in The Lancet Planetary Health further underscores the gravity of the issue, linking lead exposure to an estimated 5.5 million deaths in 2019; more than those caused by car accidents, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, suicide, and malaria combined. Economically, lead exposure is believed to cost the world 6.9% of its GDP.
Despite these alarming statistics, Pure Earth insists the challenge is solvable through collaboration and strategic interventions. The upcoming visit seeks to strengthen national capacity, promote evidence-based solutions, and build lasting partnerships to combat lead and mercury exposure.
Founded in 1999, Pure Earth is a global leader in tackling mercury and lead pollution, delivering interdisciplinary, data-driven solutions in partnership with governments, communities, and industry stakeholders.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
