Pace I Haub Environmental Law

In their article for CounterPunch, Professor Katrina Kuh from Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University and Professor James R. May from Widener University Commonwealth Law School analyze the Constitution's inadequacies in safeguarding the environment.

They write, "The absence of clear and broad constitutional authority to protect the environment—explicit in the Constitution’s text or understood by courts to reside within other enumerated powers—limits the scope of federal environmental law. One aspect of this limit is foundational. Finding constitutional authority on which to adopt our core federal environmental laws required judicial willingness and stretching of doctrine."

How the Constitution Fails to Protect the Environment By Katrina Fischer Kuh and James R. May Even a healthy U.S. democracy would struggle to respond effectively to the “wicked” problem of climate change. As

Join us in the Capitol for the return of the Pace I Haub Environmental Law Alumni & Friends Event as we celebrate the DC Externship and all its elements. Meet the externs, connect with alums, and hear about program updates! We hope to see you there!

Register to attend ➡️ https://bit.ly/4cpcZ6V

Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professor Jason Czarnezki and Sustainable Business Law Hub Fellow Barbara Ballan have co-authored an insightful article in the Washington and Lee Law Review titled “Disclosure, Greenwashing & The Future of Litigation.” This piece explores the litigation risks companies may face from misleading “green” ESG disclosures.

The article discusses the expanding ESG disclosure movement, driven by both voluntary business practices and mandatory government requirements. As ESG disclosures increase, so do the litigation risks associated with "greenwashing," where companies present false or misleading environmental or sustainability claims. The article examines the laws and regulations governing consumer and securities greenwashing litigation, the evolution of such litigation, and the relationships between different forms of greenwashing litigation.

Read the full article here ➡️ https://bit.ly/3VzIeXk

Professors Camila Bustos and Paul Rink from the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace Universityattended the 2024 Law & Society's Association Conference in Denver, CO. They moderated a discussion on climate migration with Julia Neusner, founder and director of Human Security Initiative LLC (HUMSI), and Professor Randall Abate, Assistant Dean for Environmental Law Studies at The George Washington University Law School.

The discussion aimed to foster a conversation among experts on climate migration and displacement, addressing one of the most pressing questions that communities, practitioners, and scholars face today: how can the law protect those forced to flee due to climate and environmental disasters?

Existing international and domestic laws have failed to adapt to the increasing challenge of climate-related displacement, particularly regarding understanding and responding effectively to this phenomenon. The roundtable discussed existing and proposed legal frameworks to address the protection gap faced by climate-displaced people at both domestic and international levels, examining case studies from various regions, including South America, Central America, Small Island Developing States, and Southeast Asia.

Maya K. van Rossum a Pace I Haub Environmental Law alumna, leader of the Delaware Riverkeeper Network and founder of Green Amendments For The Generations was recently featured in Inside Climate News The article highlights her steadfast dedication to advancing a greener and fairer future across the nation.

For over three decades, van Rossum has served as the Delaware Riverkeeper, tirelessly advocating for the health of the entire watershed from New York to Delaware. Renowned for her passion, courage, and unwavering commitment, she's earned respect from both allies and adversaries alike.

Maya envisions a future where the promises of Pennsylvania's green amendment are realized not just in her home state, but nationwide. Despite facing challenges, she remains focused on her vision, turning setbacks into opportunities for strategic refinement. As Maya puts it, "You don’t have the luxury of your upset; if you are too busy getting upset, you aren’t solving your problem."

Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/4bYEjcC

The transcript from the prestigious Elisabeth Haub Award for Environmental Law & Diplomacy has been published in the Spring 2024 issue (Volume 41, Issue 3) of the Pace Environmental Law Review - PELR.

This year's distinguished recipients, Ambassadors Marja Lehto (Finland) and Marie Jacobsson (Sweden), were recognized for their exceptional contributions to advancing environmental law and policy, especially in protecting the environment during times of armed conflict.

Pace I Haub Environmental Law Professor Nicholas Robinson stated, "Through conferring the Elisabeth Haub Award, Pace University and the Haub Family are honored to recognize and honor these rare individuals, who are the forerunners for needed environmental reform, and who make it possible for the next generation to campaign to implement and refine the norms that they have developed."

Read more about their groundbreaking work and the full transcript here ➡️ https://bit.ly/3x7Mggi

NEWS ALERT 🗞 : Steve Solow, former Co-Director of the Pace Environmental Litigation Clinic, D.C. Externship leader & Pace I Haub Environmental Law Adjunct Professor, has launched Solow PLLC, where he will continue his distinguished practice in white-collar defense, with a special focus on environmental issues.

In discussing the establishment of his own firm, Solow remarked on his unique value proposition derived from his extensive background and insights. His approach focuses on early intervention and problem-solving, aiming not only to provide effective defense strategies but also to prevent future occurrences. Solow envisions collaborative efforts with legal practitioners from diverse backgrounds to deliver comprehensive solutions.

Emphasizing his dedication to legal advocacy and public service, Solow's commitment extends beyond his professional endeavors. As the pro bono counsel for MAG (Mines Advisory Group) US, a nonprofit organization dedicated to humanitarian efforts in conflict zones, he remains steadfast in his mission to make a positive impact on society.

Solow's influence extends to the academic realm as well, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the legal education landscape in Washington DC. His mentorship and guidance empower our Pace | Haub Environmental Law students to navigate complex legal challenges, instilling in them a deeper understanding of real-world issues and ethical responsibilities.

Read more below.

DC White Collar Atty Leaves Baker Botts To Launch Solo Firm - Law360 After a career that has so far spanned government service, BigLaw and academia, Washington, D.C.-based white collar attorney Steve Solow is setting up his own shop.

The Pace | Haub Environmental Law Summer D.C. Externship has officially begun! This program provides students the opportunity to work with government agencies and NGOs, under the supervision of faculty based in the capital.

Before heading to D.C., students participated in an intensive three-day bootcamp at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, where they received a thorough introduction to federal regulatory programs in preparation for their summer roles.

We extend our gratitude to Professors, staff and alumni for sharing their expertise through discussions on current issues and career advice.

The 2024 externs were fortunate to hear from the 2023 cohort—thanks to Anna Sekiguchi, Patricia McKee, Sara Cody, Sara Uzatmaciyan, and Jacqueline Graf for their valuable insights.

Best of luck to this great group of students, Amanda Kapitula, Francesca Fazio, Victoria Sawchuk, Lara O’Callaghan and Andrea DeRosa — Washington D.C. is ready for you!

Professor Todd Ommen, Director of the Pace Environmental Litigation Clinic, discusses DEC's efforts to reclassify Norlite's fly ash as hazardous waste with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine (The Sanctuary for Independent Media), addressing the environmental and community impacts of Norlite's operations and comes in the wake of Norlite's recent shutdown and worker layoffs.

In 2022, the Clinic filed a Motion to Intervene in the State of NY and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation v. Norlite, LLC on behalf of Lights Out Norlite in the Supreme Court of New York Albany County. Lights Out Norlite aims to sue Norlite Facility for its members' prolonged exposure to harmful air contaminants and challenge DEC's enforcement inaction, citing violations of constitutional rights under the Green Amendment.

The Norlite Facility, an aggregate production and hazardous waste incineration facility, has long plagued the community in Cohoes, NY through its emission of harmful pollutants. Nearby residents are severely impacted by the Facility’s production of fugitive dust emissions, which blanket their homes, cars, and other property in a sheet of dust. The air contaminants in this dust significantly increase the risk of adverse health effects in the surrounding communities.

Update On Closing Down Norlite Hazardous Waste Incinerator Todd Ommen is the Director of the PACE Environmental Litigation Clinic, which is representing Lights Out Norlite in its legal efforts to shut down the Norlite hazardous waste incinerator and aggregate

Congratulations to the Class of 2024 🎓!

The Pace | Haub Environmental Law Faculty & Staff are always here for you as you tackle the world's most pressing ecological challenges. Your dedication inspires us all. Here's to a future of impactful advocacy & sustainable change! We can’t wait to see the incredible things you will achieve. And remember… we hope to see you at the 11th anniversary of the annual Earth Day Jam!

Professor Rebecca Bratspies, serving as Visiting Professor of Environmental Law and Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Visiting Scholar, delivered the Annual Lloyd K. Garrison Lecture on Environmental Law. The lecture focused on 'Mapping Injustice: Race, Place, and Environment in New York City.'

Professor Bratspies traced New York's history from the 1890s, exploring the shift in housing from single-family to tenement buildings and the resulting laws and agencies. Using maps, she highlighted the evolution of structural racism, leading to the recent map of New York City's Environmental Justice Areas, which she contributed to as a member of the NYC’s Environmental Justice Advisory Board. She emphasized the map's role in fostering change and discussed recent environmentally focused laws aimed at creating a fairer future. Professor Bratspies concluded by citing examples of ongoing changes, including the proposal for Renewable Rikers, a project involving environmental justice advocates and the Close Rikers Coalition. This initiative aims to repurpose Rikers Island for solar energy, wastewater treatment, and removing polluting infrastructure, with a focus on community involvement.

Read more about the lecture ➡️ https://bit.ly/4bcPbmd

🌍 Happy 10th Anniversary of the Earth Day Jam! 🌍

Today, as we celebrate our planet and reflect on the importance of environmental stewardship, we’re thrilled to highlight the incredible initiatives that made this year's Earth Day Jam unforgettable. From the annual sustainable clothing swap to engaging games and a flower planting station, it was a day filled with community, sustainability, and fun!

A special shoutout to the outgoing board of the Environmental Law Society for their efforts in organizing & decorating such a meaningful event. Your dedication has truly made a difference. And a warm congratulations to the new group of student leaders who will continue to carry the torch forward!

A round of applause for the amazing Faculty/student band - The Recess Appointments, for their stellar performance, adding a perfect soundtrack to the celebration!

Let's continue to work together to protect and preserve our beautiful planet, not just today, but every day. Happy Earth Day, everyone!

We celebrate the unparalleled achievement of our Pace I Haub Environmental Law, which has been named the number one program in the nation by U.S. News and World Report for a fourth consecutive year! The program, acclaimed for its excellence and expansive programming, includes two clinics, seven research centers and institutes, 40+ environmentally geared courses and a vibrant community of faculty and over 300 students.

Professor Jason Czarnezki, the Gilbert and Sarah Kerlin Distinguished Professor of Environmental Law and Associate Dean of Environmental Law Programs and Strategic Initiatives, remarks, “Our steadfast position at the pinnacle of environmental law education is a profound endorsement of our commitment to academic excellence and legal innovation. This continued recognition by U.S. News & World Report solidifies the influence and impact of our expansive program on the global stage.”

The Pace | Haub Environmental Law Program’s repeated top ranking underscores its exceptional blend of theoretical and practical education, empowering students to address today’s environmental challenges.

For more details about the Pace | Haub Environmental Law Program and its groundbreaking work, please visit: https://law.pace.edu/academics/juris-doctor-program/environmental-law-program

NEWS ALERT 🗞 : Don't miss the Annual Lloyd K. Garrison Lecture featuring Rebecca Bratspies, Visiting Professor of Environmental Law & Haub Visiting Scholar, as she explores the topic of 'Mapping Injustice: Race, Place, and Environment in NYC'.

Rebecca Bratspies is a distinguished Professor at the CUNY School of Law. She is also the founding director of the Center for Urban Environmental Reform. During her tenure at Haub Law, Professor Bratspies imparts her expertise through teaching Administrative Law and conducting a seminar on Health and the Environment. Moreover, Professor Bratspies actively contributes to various environmental initiatives, serving on NYC’s Environmental Justice Advisory Board, and holding roles such as member-scholar with the Center for Progressive Reform, board member of the Environmental Law Collective, and member of the NYC Bar Environmental Committee.

Secure your spot NOW ➡️ https://bit.ly/3vOUdq8

Pace University’s Elisabeth Haub School of Law Ranks #1 in the Nation for Environmental Law for the Fourth Consecutive Year; Trial Advocacy Program Ranks #13 | Pace Law School Pace University’s Elisabeth Haub School of Law is once again ranked #1 in the country for Environmental Law by the latest U.S. News and World Report rankings, released today. Haub Law was also ranked #13 in the nation for its trial advocacy program, placing it impressively among the top 10% of sch...

Congratulations to Professor Jason Czarnezki for being honored with the prestigious President's Award for Outstanding Contribution! As the Associate Dean of the #1 ranked Pace I Haub Environmental Law, your innovation, dedication, and expertise serve as a beacon of inspiration for us all.

Professor Czarnezki's influence extends far beyond the confines of academia. He has presented his groundbreaking work on natural resources law, environmentalism, food policy, sustainable public procurement, private environmental governance, and global climate policy at esteemed institutions across the United States, Europe, and Asia.

His vast contributions to legal scholarship are evident in the numerous articles published in esteemed law journals such as those affiliated with Boston College, Boston University, Stanford University, University of Chicago, University of Colorado, University of Maryland, and University of Virginia. Furthermore, his authored books, including "Everyday Environmentalism: Law, Nature, and Individual Behavior" (2011) and "Food, Agriculture, and Environmental Law" (2013), have significantly enriched the discourse in environmental law.

For more insights into Professor Czarnezki's noteworthy contributions ➡ https://bit.ly/3U85ISY

NEWS ALERT 🗞️: The Pace | Haub Environmental Law Program is now accepting applications for the Environmental Law LLM Fellow at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University. This is an excellent opportunity to work alongside our top Professors & student leaders for our #1 ranked program!

Our graduates thrive in diverse professional settings, including law firms, government agencies, corporations, non-profits, and academia, both domestically and internationally. With over 40 specialized environmental law courses, our program offers comprehensive education. Students have access to cutting-edge legal research opportunities through our esteemed on-campus centers: the Global Center for Environmental Legal Studies, Pace Energy & Climate Center, Land Use Law Center for Sustainable Development, Food Law Initiative, and the Sustainable Business Law Hub.

We provide unparalleled opportunities for students to hone their skills globally and gain practical experience through externship placements. Conveniently located just forty minutes from New York City by train and two hours by air from Washington, DC, our program offers easy access to prestigious practice opportunities.

Apply here ➡️ https://bit.ly/4adhIYu

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University invites nominations for the 2024 Elisabeth Haub Award for Environmental Law and Diplomacy, recognizing the innovation, skill, and accomplishments of lawyers, diplomats, civil servants and advocates across the globe.

A nomination for the Award may be submitted by any institution, international organization, diplomat, or any other person qualified in the field of environmental law and policy, including former laureates. Members of the Jury may also initiate nominations for the Award. Nominations may be submitted for an individual or for a governmental or intergovernmental organization, an Indigenous peoples’ organization, or a non-governmental organization.

Submission Deadline: Sunday, March 31, 2024, 5:00 p.m. EST

Read more ➡️ bit.ly/2G3M5aKa

The The Jeffrey G. Miller National Environmental Law Moot Court Competition (NELMCC) recently returned in person after four years, uniting law students and attorney judges at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University. Among fierce competition from 54 schools nationwide, the University of Minnesota Law School emerged victorious as the 2024 NELMCC Champions.

Founded in 1989, NELMCC sets the gold standard for moot court competitions, focusing on timely issues in environmental law. During this year’s competition, Haub Law Professor Todd Ommen challenged both teams and judges alike with a unique, timely, and complex “Problem” that compelled students to grapple with the intersection of the Natural Gas Act, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s authority to impose greenhouse gas emissions mitigation conditions, the Chevron and Major Questions Doctrines, and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

Each year, Haub Law students have the honor and responsibility of leading the competition; this year, Haub Law student Patricia McKee served as Chair. She was supported by a Haub Law student team of 30 and an additional 53 Bailiff volunteers, while Assistant Director of Pace | Haub Environmental Law, Lorraine Brown Rubich, oversaw the competition’s successful delivery.

“Once again in person, students and judges participated from around the country – as far as Washington and California in some cases – bringing an extremely high caliber of competition and expertise with them,” said Associate Director of Environmental Law Programs at Haub Law, Achinthi Vithanage. “Many of our judges included past competitors and Haub Law alumni who have been returning for over 20 years as volunteers. The dynamic energy and passion of both our competitors and judges could be felt throughout the three days.”

Special accolades were awarded to standout performers, recognizing their exceptional contributions. We extend our gratitude to the generous support from organizations like the American Bar Association (ABA) Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources (SEER), Baker Botts LLP, and AlterEcho, whose contributions make this event possible.

Read more: https://law.pace.edu/news-and-events/news/haub-law-2024-nelmcc

Join us in White Plains for the Annual Alumni & Friends Reception as we honor the The Jeffrey G. Miller National Environmental Law Moot Court Competition (NELMCC)! Engage with Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professors, NELMCC board members, & fellow alums as we reconnect and celebrate!

Thursday, February 22, 2024 | 6:30 - 8:30 pm

Secure your spot ➡️ https://bit.ly/4bu3hAM

Introducing the Pace | Haub Environmental Alumni - Student Mentorship Program!

Our program is crafted to establish meaningful connections between experienced alumni in the environmental sector and current students seeking to delve into the field. The primary goal is to cultivate valuable relationships, share knowledge, and provide career guidance through personalized mentorship and purposeful networking events.

We are actively seeking accomplished environmental professionals who are graduates of Pace | Haub Environmental Law and demonstrate a dedicated commitment to fostering the development of future environmental leaders. Alumni mentors play a crucial role in guiding students through their transition from academia to the professional world, offering practical advice and mentorship.

Discover how you can contribute as a mentor: https://bit.ly/428pboE

Photo below from the 2023 NYC alumni event featuring - Dean Horace Anderson, Professor Nicholas Robinson, Janice Dean, Samuel Capasso, Jessica Steinberg Albin, Marla E. Wieder, and Daniel E. Estrin.

The Pace | Haub Environmental Law Program is in search of judges for the 36th Annual The Jeffrey G. Miller National Environmental Law Moot Court Competition (NELMCC) from February 22-24, 2024!

We extend an invitation to law professors, former competitors/board members, legal experts specializing in environmental, energy, or natural resource law, recent law school graduates, and advocates from diverse legal backgrounds with a passion or proficiency in environmental or energy law to join us as judges.

Law student advocates from across the country gather at Haub Law for the largest interschool moot court competition. This distinctive event features three opposing teams arguing the issues, mirroring the complexity of environmental litigation involving the government, a public interest group, and a member of the regulated industry.

Check out the photo below featuring NELMCC 2020 Board members, marking the last in-person event before the pandemic. We look forward to welcoming back previous board members to Haub Law's campus to support the next generation of environmental lawyers in honing their oral advocacy skills!

Register to judge ➡ https://bit.ly/43KFSWw
Read more about the competition ➡ https://bit.ly/2U8A3BV

Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professor Nicholas Robinson explores international laws addressing Earth's mass extinction in Science Magazine with Dr. Grethel Aguilar Rojas (IUCN), commemorating the half-century of the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

The collaborative article titled "Fostering International Conservation" explores the interconnected legal frameworks of the Endangered Species Act in the United States and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) globally. Originating from the 1973 ESA, which aimed to update wildlife trade regulations, the article delves into the symbiotic relationship between the ESA and CITES. It highlights how the ESA facilitates global scientific collaboration, influencing international conservation efforts. Professor Robinson and Dr. Aguilar Rojas trace the path from the establishment of federal authorities under the ESA to subsequent global treaties addressing biodiversity, emphasizing the ongoing challenges and the need for renewed commitment to conservation goals by 2030.

A landmark environmental law looks ahead HomeScienceVol. 382, No. 6677A landmark environmental law looks aheadBack To Vol. 382, No. 6677 Free accessPolicy Forum50 Years of the Endangered Species Act Share on A landmark environmental law looks aheadRobert L. Fischman [email protected], J. B. Ruhl, [...] , Brenna R. Forester [email protect...

Professor Margot Pollans of Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University has been appointed as James D. Hopkins Professor of Law for 2023-2025, in acknowledgment of her exceptional contributions to scholarship and teaching.

At Haub Law, Professor Pollans is the Faculty Director of the Pace Food Law Center and teaches Agriculture Law and the Environment, Food Systems Law, Property Law, and Administrative Law. She is also part of the Farm Bill Law Enterprise, a national partnership of law school programs working toward a farm bill that reflects the long-term needs of our society, including economic opportunity and stability, public health and nutrition, climate change mitigation and adaptation, public resources stewardship, and racial and socioeconomic justice.

From 2021 to 2023, Professor Pollans was the Shamik and Adrienne Trivedi Faculty Scholar at Haub Law. Dean Horace E. Anderson Jr. noted, “Since joining the faculty in 2015, Professor Pollans has been a leader in building the national reputation of the Pace Food Law Center. We are honored to have her serve as our next Hopkins Professor.”

Read more: https://bit.ly/48lzpVa

NEWS ALERT 🗞️: Explore the impactful contributions of our #1 ranked environmental law program at Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University in the Annual Leadership Report—now LIVE and just in time for your holiday reading! Dive into the report for the latest updates on program updates, center initiatives, curriculum info, engaging professor/student spotlights, recognition of award recipients, event recaps, and more!

Read the report ➡️ https://bit.ly/3TvBr0l

As part of the Global Center for Environmental Legal Studies, Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professors Katrina Kuh, Smita Narula, and Camila Bustos, have joined advocates in an amicus brief to the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, highlighting the crucial role of States in upholding human rights in the face of the climate emergency.

This collaborative effort aims to emphasize the urgent need for States to fulfill their human rights obligations in the context of the climate crisis. By shedding light on the intersection of environmental law and human rights, they hope to contribute to the development of legal frameworks that protect vulnerable communities and ensure a sustainable future for all.

Learn more ➡️ bit.ly/485lHFz

Meet Michael Hamersky (LL.M. '23), Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s Climate Change & Land Use Law Policy Fellow! Michael has examined a wide variety of issues ranging from protecting ocean ecosystems to renewable energy incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act.

A Clean Energy Scholar, Michael is eager to continue his analysis of climate change mitigation & renewable energy deployment at the Land Use Law Center.

Learn more about Michael ➡️ bit.ly/3NCLzAG

Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University 2L scholars Natalie Lara and ThuLan Pham showcased exceptional prowess at the preliminary oral rounds of Universidad Cientifica del Sur Environmental Law Moot Court Competition. Their presentations in Spanish demonstrated a passion for honing advocacy skills.

💠 ThuLan expresses her gratitude, saying, "I deeply appreciate the support, guidance, and teachings throughout this process. The convergence of my passions for the environment, working in Spanish, and advocacy in this moot court has been a uniquely enriching experience. I am fortunate and proud to be a Haub Law student, where I've had an unparalleled opportunity to advance my dreams and career in such a critical field."

💠 Natalie shares her reflections, "Participating in a fully Spanish environmental competition was an incredible experience. While Spanish was my first language, employing it in a legal context posed a challenge. Nevertheless, I found pleasure in refining my legal Spanish skills. Engaging with fellow environmental law students from Chile, Colombia, and Peru also provided valuable insights into their interpretations of Peru’s human rights and environmental regulations."

Embark on a worldwide expedition of EcoJourneys with Haub 🌎, the latest series from the Pace I Haub Environmental Law Program! Our community members are exploring the globe, participating in academic meetings, delving into thought-provoking lectures, and actively engaging in impactful environmental events.

Come join us on this adventure as we share firsthand insights and experiences from diverse corners of the world. Immerse yourself in a tapestry of perspectives, cultivate collaborations with environmental enthusiasts globally, and let's collectively ignite our shared passion for environmental law and policy.

Check out Professor Jason Czarnezki reaching the peak of Dragon Spine Track in Andalucía, Spain 🇪🇸! Follow our voyages as we commence the exploration of Environmental Frontiers, One Journey at a Time.