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.
Evaluating Ocean Protection: State and Local MPA Framework cover
Kathryn Mengerink, Jay Austin
March 2015

Well-designed state and local laws can protect marine resources that are essential for the economic and environmental health of coastal areas. To understand these state and local laws, we examined the key legal tools for protecting marine areas in the twenty-three U.S. coastal states.

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Environmental Law Institute
March 2015

This white paper provides a detailed legal and practical overview of Corps regulation of offshore aquaculture, illustrated through case studies of three offshore aquaculture projects that have recently received Section 10 permits. In addition, it provides recommendations for steps to increase the consistency and timeliness of Section 10 permitting of offshore aquaculture while ensuring that all environmental impacts are effectively addressed.

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Environmental Law Institute
March 2015

This fact sheet summarizes the ELI white paper “U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Regulation of Offshore Aquaculture."

Click here for the full white paper.

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Environmental Law Institute
February 2015

This study reviews MPA laws in the eight Caribbean nations based on the types of regulated activities allowed in MPAs and the enforcement authorities they include. Based on this country-by-country legal review, the study preliminarily identifies similarities and differences among enforcement authorities in the region and highlights model approaches that may assist enforcement reform in this area. We specifically analyzed a number of issues, including:

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Reducing Environmental Exposures in Child Care Facilities: A Review of State Pol
The Environmental Law Institute and The Children’s Environmental Health Network
January 2015

Reducing Environmental Exposures in Child Care Facilities: A Review of State Policy examines state policies across the U.S. that address environmental health in licensed child care facilities. The report focuses on several key indoor environmental exposures, including environmental tobacco smoke, radon, carbon monoxide, mold, ventilation, pesticides, lead-based paint, and asbestos. Each chapter provides an overview of state laws and regulations and highlights examples of notable programs and policies.

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