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.
document with the title "model executive order on municipal leadership on food waste reduction"
Linda Breggin, Darby Hoover, Jessica Sugarman
June 2023

Given the large amount of food that some municipalities procure and the many people that they employ, the impact of food waste reduction measures in municipal operations can be substantial and far-reaching. For example, New York City purchases $500 million worth of food each year and employs around 325,000 people across dozens of agencies.

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The cover of a research report, titled "Filling the Gaps: Strategies for States/Tribes for Protection of Non-WOTUS Waters"
Rebecca Kihslinger, Jim McElfish, Heather Luedke, Georgia Ray
May 2023

Changes in the interpretation of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) resulting from judicial decisions or federal rulemaking place a substantial burden upon state and tribal regulators and legislators. States, in particular, must determine whether, and how, to keep up with shifting federal coverage by adopting and implementing protections for waters that are not protected by federal law. This report examines strategies that states (and some tribes) can use, including discussion of protections already in place.

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Cover for a research report.
Jordan Perry, Linda Breggin
May 2023

ELI’s Food Waste Initiative is publishing a Research Brief Series to present takeaways from the Initiative’s research, spanning a range of topics important to food waste prevention, recovery, and recycling. To access other research briefs in the series, visit: https://www.eli.org/food-wasteinitiative/publicationsAn Overview of Hands-on Resources for Hosting Accessible Events compiles existing resources that provide best practices for planning events that anticipate and welcome attendees with disabilities. 

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Green square with white text reading Ventilation in Schools over a picture of a well-lit empty classroom
Tobie Bernstein
January 2023

Building ventilation is a key strategy for improving indoor air quality. Well before the COVID-19 pandemic, research demonstrated the importance of outdoor air ventilation – and the related practice of air filtration – for reducing indoor exposure to viruses and to a host of common air pollutants. The pandemic highlighted both the need for proper ventilation and the fact that millions of students attend schools with inadequate ventilation and indoor air quality.

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Amy Reed
December 2022

Even with Louisiana’s long history of facilitating offshore oil and gas production in the Gulf of Mexico, anticipated offshore wind activities in state and federal waters will present new challenges for the state planning and regulatory framework. Offshore wind facilities will require substantial engagement by state agencies and commissions in order to protect state resources and guide development where appropriate.

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