The Secretariat of the Strategic Approach to Chemicals Management (SAICM) and the University of Cape Town (UCT) are launching a new Community of Practice (CoP) on Lead in Paint to bring representatives from different sectors together and to create a learning network around issues related to the elimination of Lead Paint. This is a summary of the discussion on Steps toward adoption of national lead paint laws, which took place on 9 July 2020.

Presenter: Angela Bandemehr (US EPA)

The first LiP CoP discussion, presented by Angela Bandemehr from the US EPA, reviewed three questions focusing on the development and adoption of lead paint laws that are critical to the successful elimination of lead paint in a country. The Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint or Lead Paint Alliance outlines a series of steps towards laws which have been helpful in countries that have adopted laws in the Steps Towards Laws Fact Sheet. Since each country may experience unique challenges when it comes to developing and adopting lead paint laws, it was important to consider these during the discussion. Participants were encouraged to consider how countries can engage with stakeholders, address the technical and regulatory mechanism of drafting a law, and raise public awareness.