Research Reports

ELI publishes Research Reports available for free download that present the analysis and conclusions of the policy studies ELI undertakes to improve environmental law and policy. These reports contribute to education of the profession and disseminate diverse points of view and opinions to stimulate a robust and creative exchange of ideas. Those publications, which express opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the Institute, its Board of Directors, or funding organizations, exemplify ELI’s commitment to dialogue with all sectors.
Radon in Child Care: Review of State Policies
Tobie Bernstein
July 2021

All 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as many tribes and local governments, establish health and safety standards for licensed child care. This report discusses how state laws and regulations address one pollutant that may pose a health hazard at some child care facilities: Radon.

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Rebecca Kihslinger, Avi Li, and Heather Luedke
May 2021
For this study, we reviewed 103 local plans from eleven states to better understand to what extent they are incorporating nature-based actions. Our review provides a snapshot of the range of practice across local hazard mitigation plans across the country and identifies some example language that could be used by local governments in future plan updates. We conclude with a discussion of next steps for local governments to improve integration of nature-based actions into plans​. 
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Indoor Wood Burning: Policies to Reduce Emissions and Improve Public Health
Tobie Bernstein
April 2021

Millions of households across the U.S. use wood stoves, fireplaces, and other wood-burning devices as a primary or secondary source of heat. Residential wood burning produces a multitude of air pollutants – most prominently particulate matter, which is linked to cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, cancer, and other systemic health effects. Wood burning also releases carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and toxic pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

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Rebecca Kihslinger, Avi Li, and Heather Luedke
April 2021

Nature-based strategies are actions that use the conservation or restoration of nature, such as ecosystems like wetlands, or green infrastructure projects, to address the risks from natural hazards.  Nature-based mitigation strategies can help reduce the likelihood of future hazards occurring and minimize negative impacts when they do occur.

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Pioneering Civil Lawsuits For Harm to Threatened Species: A Guide to Claims With
Lancaster Environment Centre, AURIGA Nusantara, Indonesian Institute of Sciences & Environmental Law Institute
April 2021

Actions such as illegal wildlife trade, deforestation, mining and pollution are often responsible for huge and diverse harms to the environment—including particular impacts on threatened species. Faced with growing concern about the biodiversity crisis, including reports that at least one million species are at risk of extinction, there are growing demands for social and environmental justice. This includes redoubling efforts to hold responsible parties accountable, and to deter future harmful actions.

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