The Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Friday reported that the agency and the United States Environmental Protection Agency have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that aims to boost bilateral cooperation for environmental and human health protection.

The forging of a formal agreement comes after the meeting between President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and US President Joseph Biden in Washington, D.C. last May, where both countries committed to address the health and environmental risks associated with climate change and environmental degradation.

Under the MOU, DENR and EPA will work on accelerating the collaboration between the US and the Philippines in co-creating innovative solutions to address climate and environmental challenges beyond borders. Both agencies will work on strengthening compliance and enforcement of environmental laws and ensure science-informed policies and regulations.

"The DENR recognizes that the US EPA's scientific and technical expertise will significantly contribute to the department's keen desire to integrate more science into its work. As the adverse impacts of climate change and environmental degradation continue to impact the most vulnerable of society, this collaboration will allow us to develop local adaptation and risk reduction strategies and integrate community and ecosystem resilience into green growth pathways," Loyzaga said.

She added that the collaboration will develop the capacity of the DENR- Environmental Management Bureau, given the need to enhance EMB's programs involving air and water quality management, solid waste management, marine litter and plastic pollution prevention, and the implementation of cumulative impact assessments, all of which can mitigate risks to human health and the economy.

The MOU was signed by US EPA Administrator Michael Regan in Washington, D.C. ahead of a signing ceremony with DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga witnessed by US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson on 14 November. The MOU will remain in effect for five years, with an option to renew for another five years.

"Today marks a significant milestone in the enduring partnership between the United States and the Philippines: a partnership for prosperity. This will strengthen our cooperation to protect the environment, including addressing and protecting human health," said Carlson.

The EPA is an independent agency of the United States federal government tasked with developing and enforcing environmental regulations and conducting research, among others. The agency has been at the forefront of ensuring clean air, land and water for all Americans by providing access to the best science and technology in managing human health and environmental risks.