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.
Susan Bass, Environmental Law Institute
December 1998

This report analyzes four key access provisions set forth in Article 15 of Convention of Biological Diversity. First, the legal status in terms of sovereignty and ownership of countries over their genetic resources. Second, the consent to allow other countries to access these resources. Third, equitable sharing of benefits from the use of genetic resources. Fourth, conservation and sustainable use of these resources.

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Susan Casey-Lefkowitz & Linda Breggin, Environmental Law Institute
November 1998

This report examines land-use patterns in Virginia that result in urban sprawl, high development of farmland and open space, and break-down of the community base. The study offers suggestions of how to make it cost effective for developers to build in existing communities, as well as incentives to ease pressure on rural land-owners to sell their land.

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Barriers to Environmental Technology and Use
Byron Swift, Environmental Law Institute
January 1998

This report examines barriers to technology innovation in specific industries relevant to the Great Lakes region. The six industry case studies were chosen to reflect a mix of small and large manufacturing sectors. The case studies attempt to distinguish between normal economic barriers to innovation and barriers specific to the environmental field.

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