Document mq1ezKoy8L8nD6R5ON7k8nm54

C al D ooley PRESIDENT RNT) CEO American" ^C he m istry Council February 1, 2018 Judith Garber Acting Assistant Secretary Bureau o f Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs U.S. Department of State Dear Mme Assistant Secretary: I am writing to thank the U.S. government for its significant efforts to engage with and support its many stakeholders, including the U.S, chemical industry, at the third session o f the United Nations Environment Assembly (UMEA-3). The U.S. delegation played a critical role in promoting our country's interests and all three pillars of sustainable development: environment, health, and economic development. Strong engagement by the U.S. government in UNEA and its related meetings is critical to ensuring the development of sound policy recommendations. While UNEA recommendations are non-binding, the global nature of this body has a profound impact on IJ.S. businesses operating at home and abroad. This year's negotiations were complex and covered a broad range of issues, requiring knowledgeable and experienced negotiators. The U.S, delegation included seasoned negotiators and experts from the State Department, NOAA, and EPA, who effectively managed differing member state and stakeholder positions. They also advocated for science- and risk-based approaches to complex global issues such as marine litter and microplasiics, as well as the sound management of chemicals and waste. The outcomes o f UNEA-3 demonstrate the importance of robust U.S. government engagement in international environmental forums, and the participation o f seasoned negotiators and experts. In an era of limited resources--and given the challenges posed by governments with different agendas broadly affecting U.S. interests--ACC greatly appreciates the U.S. government's focus on and investment in UNEA. Through the leadership of the International Council of Chemical Associations and World Plastics Council, the American Chemistry Council continues to collaborate with and support the UN Environment Program and the United Nations more broadly to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and sound management of chemicals worldwide. We look forward to continued, productive engagement with the U.S. government UN Environment Program, and other stakeholders to achieve these important goals. Sincerely. Cc: Principal EPA Administrator for International. Jane Nishida Senior Advisor to EPA Administrator Pruitt, Sarah Greenwalt Deputy Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, Benjamin Friedman am ericanchem lstry.corrf Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA Tier 2 ED 002061 00105653-00001