The World Coatings Council (WCC) is supporting the World Health Organization’s (WHO) International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, Oct. 20-26, 2024. The Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint (Lead Paint Alliance or LPA) is using the week to remind governments, civil society organizations, and industry of the risks of lead exposure and the need for action.

The campaign, “Bright futures begin lead free,” builds on efforts to ban lead in petrol and reduce lead in paint, especially in homes, schools and playgrounds where children are at risk. The WCC applauds these initiatives and continues to support progress made globally.

WCC is made up of trade associations representing the paint and coatings industries worldwide. Member associations have long focused on the health, safety and environmental impacts of paint manufacturing, including addressing the risks posed by lead in paints.

WCC supports the LPA’s efforts to engage governments and implement effective lead restrictions. The council welcomes the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to the partnership and is excited to collaborate with UNICEF to ensure lead-free environments in countries where restrictions on lead are not yet in place. WCC is also committed to industry outreach and education in key regions.

To support these efforts, WCC endorses tools such as the UN’s LPA “Model Law,” the second edition of the toolkit for eliminating lead in paint, and the Q&A on Lead Paint and Lead Paint Laws. These resources help governments and industries collaborate on regulations that ensure widespread compliance.

As a recognized Non-governmental Organization (NGO) with consultative status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), WCC will continue to work with LPA partners to establish effective controls and provide technical guidance for reliable industry compliance.