Solve pollution. Save lives. Protect the planet.

About Pure Earth Georgia

In Georgia, children’s lead exposure is an emerging issue that has captured the attention of relevant authorities and stakeholders through recent studies. In 2018, a BLL survey was conducted in Georgia as part of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS). The survey showed high rates of elevated BLL, particularly in the western parts of Georgia. The results showed that 41% of children have elevated BLLs.

Lead added to spices to enhance the weight, color, and flavor has been blamed for elevated blood lead levels in Georgia and other lower- and middle-income countries. Pure Earth is working with the government to eliminate the use of lead-adulterated spices and identify other potential sources of lead exposure.

In 2019, the Republic of Georgia faced a childhood lead poisoning crisis. A national survey had revealed that 41% of children had elevated blood lead levels. Moving quickly, the government asked Pure Earth to investigate. In under two years, Pure Earth experts were not only able to identify the source – toxic lead in spices – but also help stop the flow of contaminated spices into Georgian markets almost completely.

The Toxic Truth

Solving the Toxic Mystery of Lead in Spices

Learn more about Pure Earth’s work with the Government of Georgia to identify and eliminate lead exposures from lead-adulterated spices.

Programmatic Solutions

Research on Lead Sources
Research on Lead Sources

In 2019, Pure Earth conducted a study seeking to determine the sources of lead exposure in Georgia and found that of all possible sources tested — lead-based paint, soil, water and spices — only adulterated spices contained significant amounts of lead.

Toxic Site Assessments
Toxic Site Assessments

Identify the source of lead in the food chain of children

Lead Remediation Program
Lead Remediation Program

Create an assessment of contaminated sites and prioritize remediation

Advocacy and Campaigns
Advocacy and Campaigns

Raise awareness regarding lead chromate in the local population

 

 

 

Events

Check back soon for future events.

Knowledge Materials

Kavtaradze str. 27 Tbilisi Georgia 0151

Our Team
Khatuna Akhalaia

Country Director
[email protected]