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.
Municipal Green Building Policies: Strategies for Transforming Building Practice
Tobie Bernstein
April 2008

The past few years have seen a tremendous surge in municipal green building policies. A growing number of local governments recognize that changing building practices is important not only for conserving scarce natural resources and preventing pollution, but also for improving health and productivity and achieving economic sustainability.

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Planner's Guide to Wetland Buffers for Local Governments
Environmental Law Institute
March 2008

The upland area surrounding a wetland – the wetland buffer – is essential to its health and survival. Healthy wetlands and buffer areas help to control flooding, protect water flows, conserve native plants and wildlife, and support nature-friendly land use and development. Local governments are often better situated than state and federal environmental authorities to control activities on the lands that surround wetland resource areas, because they are not just concerned with wetland functions, but also with surrounding land uses and the benefits wetlands provide for their communities.

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