The MoU was signed by Union Environment and Forests Minister A. Raja and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. It focuses on four priorities — air quality, water quality, toxic chemicals and waste and the management of environmental agencies. Mr. Johnson expressed the view that renewing this MoU would strengthen EPA's vital collaborations with India in order to continue to accelerate the pace of environmental progress in both nations. The renewed commitment builds on significant accomplishments during the first five years of the memorandum of understanding. Through collaboration with the Pune Municipal Corporation and the California Air Resources Board, the city developed a comprehensive air quality management plan that is being replicated in six cities throughout India.

Additionally, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is working with Pune and the Maharashtra Government to demonstrate the effectiveness of using technology to reduce air pollution from diesel buses and auto-rickshaws.

In Hyderabad, the Environmental Protection Agency is working with the World Health Organisation and the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board to prevent drinking water contamination, protecting the health of 200,000 residents.