Lead Exposure Elimination Project - LEEP

LEEP is an impact-driven, evidence-based nonprofit that aims to eliminate childhood lead poisoning, which affects an estimated one in three children worldwide. Our work involves generating data, supporting governments with the introduction and enforcement of regulation, and assisting industry in eliminating lead from their products. We have historically primarily focused on one important source of exposure: lead paint. But we are now expanding to other sources of lead exposure, specifically spices and cosmetics.

Since our founding in September 2020:

• We have initiated lead paint elimination programs in 40 countries; completed 33 paint studies; and agreed on goals to establish lead paint regulation with government agencies in 18 (e.g., Angola).
• We’ve made crucial progress in engaging with manufacturers in 22 countries (e.g., Pakistan), and in reducing the lead paint market share in Ghana, Malawi and Pakistan.
• Founders Pledge estimates that it costs $1.66 to prevent one child’s lead exposure (in expectation) through our work, making LEEP one of its most cost-effective nonprofit recommendations. Our own analysis estimates that it costs under $5 to avert one DALY equivalent through LEEP’s first 13 established programs.
• We are a partner of the WHO and UN Environment Programme's Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint and a member of the Partnership for a Lead-Free Future.
• We have received grants from major grantmaking organisations, including Founders Pledge, Coefficient Giving, Bloomberg Philanthropies, USAID, and Schmidt Futures.