In this episode of Environmentally Speaking, we dive into the crucial role of regulators and explore how businesses and individuals can build productive, trust-based relationships with them. Our guest, Bill Patenaude, brings over 34 years of experience as a regulator and trainer at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RI DEM) to share valuable insights on how to navigate regulatory processes, communicate effectively, and avoid common compliance pitfalls.

Bill holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and retired from RI DEM in May 2023. He is a Certified Myers-Briggs Type Indicator instructor/facilitator and now works as a trainer and technical assistance provider for the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC) in Lowell, MA, where he continues to teach regulatory relations. Additionally, Bill serves as a Flex Facilitator for Half Full LLC in Providence, where he provides training on communication skills, difficult conversations, leadership, organizational development, and more.

🔗 Connect with Bill Patenaude:

📧 Email:[email protected]

💼 LinkedIn:Find Bill on LinkedIn

Welcome back, listeners, to another episode of Environmentally Speaking! After a brief hiatus, we're diving right back into the pressing issues of environmental policy and legislation. In today's episode, we discuss the dramatic shifts in governmental policies, particularly focusing on the surprising changes regarding offshore wind projects under the new administration. The Biden administration's aggressive push for these projects has been paused with a six-month moratorium under the new executive order. We’ll explore the implications of this pause, the potential legal and environmental impacts, and what the future might hold for offshore wind initiatives. Stay tuned as we unravel these developments and ponder their consequences on our environment and legal landscape. If you have any topics you'd love to hear more about, don't forget to reach out to us with your suggestions! 

Email: [email protected]

Have you ever wondered how supply chain issues impact developers and what alternatives they might have?

Tune into this week's episode of Environmentally Speaking with hosts Kerin and Clarice as they break down the trends, pitfalls, and strategies for navigating these challenges.

Key Takeaways:

- Understanding market cycles and timing your projects

- Practical tips to save money and strategize better

- The importance of keeping future trends in mind

Join Clarice and Marisa as they discuss the ban on single-use plastic bags in this thought-provoking episode of Environmentally Speaking.

Have thoughts or experiences to share? Reach out.

In this episode, Clarice and Marisa tackle the intricacies of environmental law, focusing on EPA policy documents and their implications. Discover how these documents differ from regulations and why they matter for anyone involved in environmental science, consultation, regulatory work, or legal practice.

New episode alert! Today on Environmentally Speaking, we explore the fascinating intersection of art and land use and how regulations shape public art in our communities. 

In today's episode of Environmentally Speaking, we're reflecting on how recent laws are transforming housing and community spaces.

New legislation unlocked development potential by allowing for smaller homes on previously unusable lots and encouraging the adaptive reuse of charming old buildings. This could mean more housing options and revitalized neighborhoods, but questions remain about impacts on green spaces and property values.

What's your take? Could these changes be a game-changer for our communities? Share your thoughts below!

Today, our hosts Clarice and Marisa delve into the most recent ruling of “Chevron Deference” and a major reversal of environmental law that will have impacts federally – but what about locally? Learn more about what this ruling means and how it may impact legal decisions going forward.

Today, our hosts Clarice and Marisa delve into a groundbreaking scientific development that merges the realms of environmental science and futuristic innovation. Join us as we explore the discovery of plastic-eating bacteria, an advancement that has the potential to revolutionize our approach to plastic waste management. From its initial discovery in a Japanese landfill to the current research aimed at accelerating its efficiency, we'll uncover how this development could impact the global issue of plastic accumulation in our landfills and oceans. This episode will also address the broader implications of this discovery, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and mindful consumption. Stay with us for a compelling discussion on a topic that could reshape our environmental future. 

On today's episode of Environmentally Speaking, we dive into the crucial role of native trees in combating soil erosion. Join hosts Marisa and Clarice as they explore the environmental and economic benefits of keeping trees intact. From real-world examples in Australia to our own backyards, discover why cutting down trees might be hurting more than just the landscape. We'll also discuss shocking insights into how tree roots outperform concrete in maintaining land stability. Don’t miss out—tune in and learn why letting nature do its thing is the best choice for our environment and our wallets.

Here's a link to the article referenced: 

Plant more native trees to reduce landslide risk, control erosion, say researchers (phys.org)