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.
Margaret Bowman, Environmental Law Institute
December 1993
Margaret Bowman, Environmental Law Institute
December 1993

This process of interaction and mutual influence among various groups within a society -- the public, business interests, and government -- characterizes a functioning democratic system. Yet such effective interaction is impossible without the free exchange of full and accurate information that can form the basis of individual and collective changes in behavior. Access to information -- in the context of legal and social structures that are conducive to constructive change -- thus fuels the democratic process, in environmental protection as in other aspects of self-government.

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James M. McElfish Jr., Environmental Law Institute
December 1993

On November 23, 1992, under the sponsorship of EPA`s Habitat Cluster, representatives from 25 environmental and conservation organizations were convened by the Environmental Law Institute to consider EPA`s options for protection of habitat. The organizations included not only the national environmental groups, but also representatives of regional groups and coalitions, and organizations that have a focus on conservation, planning, or particular resources.

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Margaret Bowman, Environmental Law Institute
December 1993

The implementation of endangered species protection policies has focused, especially in recent years, on the threats posed by various land use practices. Less studied, but nevertheless important, are the wide ranging effects of pollution on endangered species and critical habitat. The harmful effects of pollution have contributed to the listing of numerous species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

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Paul Locke, Environmental Law Institute
December 1993

Radon exposure poses a threat to health when the gas enters buildings through cracks, other openings in the foundation, or in some other manner, and is trapped inside at high concentrations. EPA estimates that six million homes in the United States contain high radon levels. The potential for high indoor radon is greater in areas with certain geological features.

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