Additional Context: This information is based on 150 semi-structured interviews conducted by One Earth Partners across five countries selected to represent the diversity of USAID's environmental work. Interview findings were triangulated with a global survey of 175 respondents and external media analysis.

This information was provided by a respondent in the Philippines. According to One Earth Partners, beyond direct risks, the withdrawal of U.S. environmental assistance has also meant the loss of support to marginalized groups, such as these women waste workers.

Devex Researcher Note: Women workers are largely excluded from formal employment in waste work, and often work without protections, benefits, or guaranteed pay. While the project is not directly identified by the authors of the report, the Women in Waste’s Economic Empowerment activity was a part of USAID's flagship Clean Cities Blue Oceans program. Projects such as these supported marginalized communities working in waste systems to engage in entrepreneurial initiatives, while empowering them to understand their rights.

Source: One Earth Partners (Full report forthcoming).