Blacksmith Institute

Blacksmith Institute

Formation	1999
Founder	Richard Fuller
Type	Non-profit organization
Headquarters	New York City, United States
Website	www.pureearth.org

The Blacksmith Institute, now known as Pure Earth, is a non-profit organization dedicated to solving pollution problems in low- and middle-income countries, where human health is at risk. Founded in 1999 by Richard Fuller, the organization focuses on identifying and mitigating toxic pollution in some of the world's most polluted places.

History

The Blacksmith Institute was established in 1999 with the mission to address pollution issues that pose significant health risks to communities in developing countries. The organization was named after the blacksmith, a traditional symbol of industry and transformation. In 2015, the Blacksmith Institute rebranded itself as Pure Earth to better reflect its mission and activities.

Mission and Activities

The primary mission of the Blacksmith Institute is to reduce pollution and its impact on human health, particularly in the world's poorest communities. The organization works by identifying polluted sites, assessing the health risks, and implementing cleanup projects. It collaborates with local governments, communities, and other stakeholders to ensure sustainable solutions.

Key Programs

• Toxic Sites Identification Program (TSIP): This program involves the identification and assessment of polluted sites around the world. The data collected is used to prioritize cleanup efforts and raise awareness about pollution issues.
• Global Alliance on Health and Pollution (GAHP): The Blacksmith Institute is a founding member of GAHP, a collaborative body that works to address pollution and health issues globally.
• Pollution Cleanup Projects: The organization implements various cleanup projects, focusing on reducing exposure to toxic substances such as lead, mercury, and other heavy metals.

Impact

The Blacksmith Institute has been instrumental in raising awareness about the health impacts of pollution in developing countries. Its efforts have led to the cleanup of numerous polluted sites, improving the health and well-being of affected communities. The organization has also contributed to the development of policies and practices aimed at reducing pollution and its health impacts.

Also see

• Pollution
• Environmental health
• Non-profit organization
• Toxic waste
• Global Alliance on Health and Pollution