“Using Science in Environmental Law and Policy” Seminar with John Pendergrass

UMD Department of Environmental Science and Technology

Spring 2014 Seminar Series

John Pendergrass

Senior Attorney and Director of the Climate and Energy Program,

Environmental Law Institute, Washington, D.C.

“Science is the foundation of environmental law and policy, but how it is used varies across legislative, regulatory, judicial, and international forums. Drawing on experience in each forum, I discuss the different roles science and scientists (and other technical experts) play depending on the context. Environmental legislation in the U.S. has typically followed crises, which places a premium on basic concepts and sound-bite science. The regulatory process is better suited to consider science, but frequently leads to a battleground of competing sides. Courtrooms can involve a more heated battleground, but also allow for neutral consideration of technical evidence. Science has often been critical to the initiation and development of international environmental law, including treaties covering endangered species, ozone depletion, and climate change.”

Wed. February 12, 4:00 PM, Room ANS 0408

Animal Science/Agricultural Engineering Building

Contact: gdlott@umd.edu

University of Maryland - College Park