The initial phase of this effort, known as the Clean Air Initiative in Latin American Cities, was launched in 1998 by the World Bank to establish a comprehensive approach to addressing air quality challenges in Latin America. This initial phase supported the development and enhancement of clean air action plans in large urban areas throughout Latin America, enhanced scientific knowledge and understanding of urban air quality and its associated impacts on human health, and provided decision makers with tools for assessing policy options.
After more than 6 years of functioning as the Technical Secretariat, the World Bank sought to build on the efforts of the initiative by broadening its geographic and thematic scope as well as its membership and financial base. In 2006, the World Bank, in partnership with Breakthrough Technologies Institute, jointly announced the establishment of a new, independent, nonprofit organization, the Clean Air Institute, along with the expansion of the partnership into the Clean Air Initiative for Latin America and the Caribbean (CAI-LAC).
The restructuring of the original phase of the initiative was envisioned to revitalize efforts by, among other things, creating a forum for strategy and project development, as well as for channeling training, technical assistance, and information exchange at a regional level. The new governing structure of the CAI-LAC partnership comprises the following four bodies:
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Clean Air Institute: Led by an Executive Director, the Clean Air Institute is responsible for managing the operations of the partnership. The Institute ensures implementation of the Strategy through the development and execution of the annual work plan and budget, promotion of member participation, and coordination of the biennial Regional Forum.
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Board of Directors: As the governing body, the Board of Directors sets general directions and policies for the Institute and outlines future priorities for the partnership. The Board approves the work plan and oversees and helps ensure the financial sustainability of the Institute. The first Board of Directors is headed by Dr. Mario Molina, Dr. Alan Lloyd, and Dr. Richard Ayres. The board meets at least once a year.
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CAI-LAC Members: Latin American and Caribbean cities and other local, regional, and national government agencies, international development agencies, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, social and professional organizations, private foundations, and the business community comprise the CAI-LAC membership. Guided by the Regional Strategy, the members implement collaborative efforts consistent with the CAI-LAC mission.
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Advisory Committee: Member representatives comprise the Advisory Committee, which is responsible for providing guidance and expertise to the partnership. The Advisory Committee meets annually.
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