Arlington, VA – Today, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency awarded a technical assistance grant to Jamaica’s National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) to expand access to clean water across Jamaica. USTDA’s assistance will support deployment of reverse osmosis technology that transforms seawater into water that is potable and suitable for commercial and industrial uses.
“As rising global temperatures and climate change impact the availability of clean water across the globe, it is critical to identify alternative sustainable water solutions. Reverse osmosis technology offers an innovative solution for greater water access,” said Enoh T. Ebong, USTDA’s Director. “USTDA’s partnership with NEPA will be instrumental in helping Jamaica meet its most pressing need for fresh water, while opening opportunities for U.S. technologies that adhere to the highest standards of environmental safety.”
USTDA’s assistance will facilitate the implementation of water treatment systems in Jamaica that are environmentally responsible and reduce impact on groundwater and marine life. This is crucial for Jamaica’s growing manufacturing and hotel industries and promoting economic growth while safeguarding natural resources.
NEPA CEO Leonard Francis expressed gratitude for USTDA’s assistance while emphasizing the inextricable link between environmental responsibility and sustainable development. According to Mr. Francis, “the National Environment and Planning Agency is invested in responsible development in allowing the citizenry to live in harmony with nature while aiming to secure a future for our children. This study, which is being undertaken on a number of approved reverse osmosis plants, is aimed at ensuring that we protect our marine resources whilst pursuing alternative sources of potable water in support of varying development initiatives. The study will inform the required standards, guidelines and regulations for their proper management and operation.”
“I was proud to work with USTDA on this important initiative to bring the Jamaican people enhanced access to clean water that is critical to personal health, economic development and prosperity,” said U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica N. Nick Perry. “This will make our strong bilateral friendship and relationship even deeper and help achieve Jamaica’s goal of becoming a more safe, secure, and prosperous nation.”
USTDA’s assistance underscores the U.S. government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate change adaptation. This project supports several critical Biden Administration priorities including the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, the President’s Emergency Plan for Adaptation and Resilience and the U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030.
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The U.S. Trade and Development Agency helps companies create U.S. jobs through the export of U.S. goods and services for priority infrastructure projects in emerging economies. USTDA links U.S. businesses to export opportunities by funding project preparation and partnership building activities that develop sustainable infrastructure and foster economic growth in partner countries.
MEDIA INQUIRIES: Paul Marin | press@ustda.gov