Millions in Ethiopia’s Rift Valley are exposed to naturally occurring contaminants such as fluoride and arsenic each year. As part of an interdisciplinary team of researchers, the Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions is studying water quality, in particular the impact of long-term exposure to contaminants such as fluoride, in the region’s groundwater.

While billions still lack safe drinking water and sanitation, access can be enhanced through improved policy and strategic outreach. The Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions focuses on water, sanitation and hygiene issues (WASH), primarily in Sub-Saharan Africa. Through primary research, collaboration with multiple stakeholders, and engagement in the policy arena in Washington, D.C., the water team seeks to be part of efforts aimed at reaching the 886 million people without access to safe water and the 2.5 billion people without access to adequate sanitation.

One of the Nichols Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions first projects was to work with the Aspen Institute to create the Silent Tsunami report—providing a supporting impetus for the creation of the Paul Simon Water for the Poor Act that provides funding for water projects in the developing world. The Nicholas Institute has maintained a consistent dialogue with the legislative and executive branches about the implementation of that Act and related programs.