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.
Conserving Treasured Landscapes in the Chesapeake: Appendix
James M. McElfish, Jr., Dr. Rebecca Kihslinger, and Michael Ng
November 2009

ELI has collaborated with the Friends of the Capt. John Smith Chesapeake Trail, and the National Geographic Society to produce this appendix, along with the special report and map that recommend the development of a bold and coordinated strategy for conserving the Chesapeake’s treasured landscapes and calling for more federal investment in land conservation.

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Robert Falkner, Linda Breggin, Nico Jaspers, John Pendergrass and Read Porter
October 2009
Estimating U.S. Government Subsidies to Energy Sources: 2002-2008
Adenike Adeyeye, James Barrett, Jordan Diamond, Lisa Goldman, John Pendergrass, and Daniel Schramm
September 2009

The largest U.S subsidies to fossil fuels are attributed to tax breaks that aid foreign oil production, according to research released by ELI. The study, which reviewed fossil fuel and energy subsidies for Fiscal Years 2002-2008, reveals that the lion’s share of energy subsidies supported energy sources that emit high levels of greenhouse gases. Fossil fuels benefited from approximately $72 billion over the seven-year period, while subsidies for renewable fuels totaled only $29 billion.

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Maryland Offshore Energy Framework
James McElfish, Daniel Schramm, and Adam Schempp
September 2009

ELI’s Oceans and Land & Biodiversity staff analyze the tools available to Maryland’s Coastal Zone Management Program to address new energy activities in state and federal coastal waters. The report assesses Maryland’s existing laws and policies, interstate agreements, and federal laws, and identifies potential measures that can help Maryland create an Offshore Energy Framework.

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Robert Falkner, Linda Breggin, Nico Jaspers, John Pendergrass and Read Porter
September 2009