Ronnie Levin: Breaking the Barrier: Expert in Environmental Health Named to Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Individuals in Global Health.

Ronnie Levin, a professor in the Department of Environmental Health at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, was named one of the 100 most influential individuals in global health for 2024 by Time Magazine. The list, published on May 2, highlights individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of health.

Levin was recognized for her work in the category of “Catalysts” due to her research on lead, which played a crucial role in driving change in lead pipe replacement policies across the United States. In a cost-benefit analysis conducted with her husband and colleague, Joel Schwartz, it was found that reducing lead in drinking water could result in over $8 billion in health benefits and at least $2 billion in infrastructure savings each year.

In an interview with Time Magazine, Levin expressed excitement about the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed rule but emphasized the importance of effective implementation and enforcement for desired outcomes to be achieved. She highlighted that without proper follow-through, the proposed changes may not have their intended impact.

Levin’s research on environmental health has significantly contributed to global health discussions and initiatives, making her a deserving inclusion on the Time 100 Health list for 2024.