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.
January 2009
This ELI research report focuses on expanding the role of ecosystem-based management (EBM) in the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA), which arguably is the most influential federal law on marine and coastal resources in the U.S., but with few provisions that reflect EBM. This paper identifies sections of the Act poised to adopt EBM and suggests language that could be added to the CZMA. As reauthorization of the CZMA has raised interest in its structure and objectives, this simple idea could have far-reaching effects on the health of this country’s marine and coastal areas.
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January 2009
The first two steps in the CWA section 404 sequencing process have received far less attention at a national level. This study looks at how the avoidance and minimization requirements are applied by permitting officials in state and federal regulatory and resource agencies, where they find weaknesses, and how the process could be improved.
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December 2008
In An Action Plan on Invasive Species, the Environmental Law Institute and its partners in the National Environmental Coalition on Invasive Species have identified priority actions for both the Obama administration and the 111th Congress related to invasive species prevention and management. By taking these simple steps, the federal government can make substantial progress toward addressing animal and plant invasive species threats.
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