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EPHI Commits to Free LSLRCC to Support Climate Action for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities Following the United Nations GMGSF

Chicago, Illinois – December 7, 2025
Environmental & Public Health International® (EPHI) announced its commitment to continue funding and expanding global outreach of its Lead Service Line Replacement Cost Calculator® (LSLRCC) following its engagement at the United Nations Global Major Groups and Stakeholders (GMGSF) Forum. This strengthened commitment includes a significant scale up of outreach and awareness efforts that will extend the tool’s visibility and accessibility to more than 150 countries.

The initiative reinforces support for Indigenous Peoples and local communities working to advance climate action, safeguard water resources, and improve access to safe drinking water.

Role of the United Nations Global Major Groups and Stakeholders Forum

The GMGSF serves as a key platform for shaping international environmental governance. The Forum brings together civil society representatives, Indigenous leaders, scientific institutions, and other stakeholders to help inform the agenda of the United Nations Environment Assembly.

Through this inclusive process, the Forum ensures that global environmental policies reflect the knowledge, priorities, and lived experiences of communities working on the front lines of climate and environmental sustainability challenges.

Supporting the Leadership of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities on the Front Lines

Meaningful climate action requires strengthening the capacity of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, especially those working to safeguard drinking water systems that are increasingly vulnerable to climate impacts.

Many of these communities face disproportionate water quality risks, heightened infrastructure challenges, and limited access to technical support. These conditions underscore the need for inclusive and equitable solutions that prioritize community-led approaches.

By expanding international outreach and increasing the accessibility and awareness of free resources like the LSLRCC, EPHI aims to provide these communities with practical tools that support evidence-based planning for climate-resilient drinking water infrastructure. This effort is intended to enhance water protection, strengthen local decision making, and ensure that frontline communities are fully equipped to participate in global environmental and climate governance.

Equitable Safe Drinking Water, Climate Action, and Sustainable Development

The LSLRCC is recognized by United Nations agencies, global scientific networks, and public sector institutions for strengthening transparency, advancing equitable access to safe drinking water, and supporting climate-resilient infrastructure planning. The tool helps Tribal Nations, municipalities, and local governments implement evidence-based approaches to drinking water safety and sustainability.

Many frontline communities lack the technical capacity and resources needed to protect their drinking water systems from growing climate pressures. Expanding global outreach for the LSLRCC helps close this gap by providing a free, accessible resource that supports informed planning, stronger drinking water protection, and meaningful participation in environmental governance.

Commitment to Free, Equitable Access Strengthening the Work of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities

Through its sustained in-kind support for the LSLRCC and its shared commitment to expanding global outreach and awareness, EPHI aims to contribute to collective efforts that advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

This collaboration strengthens the capacity of resource-constrained communities, including Indigenous Peoples and local communities, to access practical tools that improve safe drinking water, protect public health, and plan for climate-resilient infrastructure.

“Indigenous Peoples and local communities continue to lead global efforts to secure safe drinking water and strengthen climate adaptation. Their leadership shapes the spirit of the Global Major Groups and Stakeholders Forum and guides our shared commitment to a more resilient future,” said Anthony Ross, Director of Environmental & Public Health International.

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Anthony Ross
Director, Environmental & Public Health International
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