ENSC5305

ENSC

5305

ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIES AND ENFORCEMENT

This course explores the range of legal tools that government regulators have to address violations of environmental laws, from civil lawsuits to criminal prosecutions. Students will study the use of “citizen suits” by the public and NGOs to enforce environmental requirements and standards. Case studies will play a central role in the course, highlighting the practical aspects and practical implications of enforcement actions. The book “A Civil Action”, a classic that that explores the toxic tort lawsuit filed by residents of the Town of Woburn, Mass. against two major companies alleged to have contaminated the town’s drinking water, will feature in class discussions. Finally, current developments in the areas of environmental regulation and policy will be reviewed and discussed.