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.
Halting the Invasion in the Chesapeake Bay: Preventing Aquatic Invasive Species
Environmental Law Institute
December 2007

ELI’s report, Halting the Invasion in the Chesapeake Bay, examines the complex issues faced in addressing the issue of aquatic invasions in the Chesapeake Bay. The report analyzes laws and regulations that affect aquatic invasive species prevention efforts, such as the pet trade, importation of aquarium fish, aquaculture, and other commercial enterprises, and makes recommendations intended to harmonize inter-state efforts in the Chesapeake Bay under existing authorities and to strengthen the existing legal infrastructure.

Read More >
Assessment of the Legal, Scientific, and Institutional Frameworks for Biodiversi
Lisa Goldman, ELI & Dr. Nick Brown, University of Oxford
October 2007

This report was coauthored by ELI and the University of Oxford’s Department of Plant Sciences, with support from, and in collaboration with, the United Nations Environment Programme’s Post-Conflict and Disaster Management Branch. It undertakes a detailed analysis of the current laws, regulations, institutions, and practices affecting the management and conservation of biodiversity in Liberia. Based on its research findings, the report highlights priority actions to improve Liberia’s governance of biodiversity.

Read More >
Mitigation of Impacts to Fish and Wildlife Habitat: Estimating Costs and Identif
Environmental Law Institute
October 2007

Every year, human activities cause significant harm to fish and wildlife habitat and the environment. Many of the impacts to these natural resources are never addressed. In certain cases, however, federal, state, and local laws and programs can require monetary or in-kind compensation for these impacts. A new ELI report, "Mitigation of Impacts to Fish and Wildlife Habitat: Estimating Costs and Identifying Opportunities," estimates that private and public expenditures for such compensation under key federal programs total up to $3.8 billion annually.

Read More >
State Wetland Program Evaluation: Phase IV
Environmental Law Institute
October 2007

This report is the fourth and final phase in ELI's multi-year study on the "core" components of state wetland programs (which include: state laws, regulations, and programs; monitoring and assessment; restoration programs and activities; water quality standards; public-private partnerships; coordination among state and federal agencies; and education and outreach activities). Each phase of the study examines a cross-section of states representing various approaches to wetland protection and regulation, as well as geographic diversity.

Read More >