USAID Clean Air

OVERVIEW

USAID Clean Air uses a multi-sectoral approach to reduce air pollution in Kathmandu Valley by engaging the government, civil society, private sector, and citizens. The activity works to improve understanding of air quality issues, find local solutions, and develop capacity and commitment to implement policies for reducing air pollution.

HIGHLIGHT

USAID Clean Air builds capacity for civil society advocacy while increasing funding for green business models, greener processes, and air pollution emissions reduction. A green innovation competition will spur new technologies and approaches while policy reforms support businesses and workers in a START greener economy.

USAID Clean Air Partners with the Government of Nepal on evidence-based policy:

USAID works with the Government of Nepal (GoN) to support evidence-based policy formulation, enforcement, and implementation that influence air quality. USAID supports the implementation of the Kathmandu Valley Air Quality Management Plan, particularly at the municipal level. The activity demonstrates sustainable interventions for cleaner air that are being scaled up by municipalities through their own investment or private sector engagement.

Strengthens the resilience of communities:

USAID works with civil society groups and citizens to increase their knowledge about air pollution issues, access to high-quality data on air quality, and engage in public interest advocacy. With these skills, civil society and the media can better hold the private sector, local and national governments accountable for improving air quality, with an emphasis on equity.

Leverages the private sector to promote investment:

USAID uses a competitive innovation fund to promote private sector involvement and investment in identifying and testing technologies and strategies for preventing and mitigating air pollution in Nepal.