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.
December 2023
Natural and nature-based infrastructure (NNBI) projects have been shown to be helpful in addressing environmental problems across various landscapes and to provide co-benefits not offered by traditional infrastructure solutions. However, as they are increasingly considered for implementation, project proponents face the necessity of securing regulatory approval from the appropriate federal or state authorities.
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December 2023
Cost-shared water resource development projects led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers require an agreement in writing between the Corps and the project’s nonfederal sponsor. Such an agreement, known as a Project Partnership Agreement (PPA), is crucial to the successful construction and operation of proposed water resource development projects across the country. The PPA serves as a framework for the nature of the partnership throughout the course of the project’s life.
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December 2023
On November 3 and 4, 2022, a group of government officials, academics, non-governmental organization representatives, scientists and lawyers gathered at the offices of Duke University in Washington, D.C., to discuss how to improve the management of marine migratory species that cross the US and Canadian border.
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November 2023
Currently, the U.S. is undergoing a shift in the energy sector that has the potential to significantly impact—in a positive or negative manner—equity and environmental justice (EEJ). A positive impact will likely require a shift in perspective and the willingness to change historical practices and approaches, respect the experience and priorities of other groups, and engage them to create collaborative relationships.
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November 2023
Pay-As-You-Throw Programs (PAYT) programs establish a system in which households are charged based on the amount of trash they dispose of—and are charged at a higher rate for trash than for recyclables and compostables—rather than paying a flat fee for unlimited trash disposal. The NRDC/ELI Model Ordinance Establishing a Pay-As-You-Throw Program for Residential Municipal Solid Waste outlines the fundamental PAYT program components and includes language to adopt PAYT that can be tailored to the wide variety of municipal waste management arrangements around the country.
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