With crucial existing environmental regulations being threatened with rollbacks by the government and the Earth’s sustainability becoming more dire, the Federal government, the states, and businesses are in a head to head battle for the future of environmental policies. Is there hope for our planet?

My guest in this episode is Nicholas W. (“Nico”) van Aelstyn, a partner in the Real Estate, Land Use and Environmental Practice Group in the Sheppard Mullin San Francisco office. Nicholas has more than 25 years of environmental counseling and litigation experience. His environmental compliance counseling practice focuses on climate change, Brownfields redevelopment, sustainability and other regulatory and transactional matters.

What We Discuss in This Episode:

• What are the suggested rollbacks as they pertain to existing U.S. environmental policies?
• How can Congressional acts be challenged in court or by the Executive Branch?
• What role do states play in challenging Executive action?
• Why is regulating tailpipe emissions important?
• How does a rollback of the tailpipe emission standards affect the automotive industry?
• Why did the antitrust department of the Department of Justice launch an investigation into four U.S. automakers?
• How are some states taking action on their own to deal with changes in environmental regulations?
• Should there be a price on carbon emission by companies?
• How are local organizations and corporations stepping up and organizing in response to climate change?
• What are international organizations doing to address climate issues?
• Despite the devastating fires in the Amazon forest, is there a silver lining when it comes to preserving the forest?

Resources Mentioned:

Paris Agreement  

IPCC 

Making Sense Podcast with Sam Harris

Contact Information:

Sheppard Mullin attorney profile

LinkedIn 

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 This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matter, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.