We have written extensively on the recent rollout by EPA and the implications of PFAS requirements for monitoring and treatment by publicly owned water and wastewater (“WWTP”) treatment plants, including those operated as...more
Much has been written, including in our Burns & Levinson Legal Terrain Blog, about the impact of PFAS and similar “forever chemicals” on suits by state attorneys general and private actions to obtain funds or obtain insurance...more
4/25/2024
/ Biden Administration ,
Contamination ,
Discharge of Pollutants ,
Environmental Policies ,
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ,
Groundwater ,
Hazardous Substances ,
PFAS ,
Public Health ,
Toxic Chemicals ,
Water Quality
As America’s cradle of the Industrial Revolution, southern New England experienced early, rapid, and sustained growth of manufacturing industries beginning in the late 18th century and through the first half of the 20th...more
In Rhode Island, public access advocates, as well as local and state officials, continue efforts to secure access for the public to and along the shore. My August post, “How About a Walk on the Beach,” summarized the history...more
1/26/2024
/ Beach Access ,
Beachfront Properties ,
Coastal Real Estate ,
Constitutional Amendment ,
Fifth Amendment ,
Fourteenth Amendment ,
Fourth Amendment ,
Property Owners ,
Public Access Laws ,
RI Supreme Court ,
Waterfront Properties
While efforts by the U.S. could help to slow or even reverse the impacts of climate change we already are experiencing, if we keep up and double down on our efforts, we may well avoid reaching the 2 degrees Celsius tipping...more
The epic depletion of naturally occurring phosphorous in the environment, or “Phosphogeddon,” as it is euphemistically called often by some who discount its significance, may be the next great environmental challenge, ranking...more
We have probably already read (and written) too much about the challenges of dealing with “forever chemicals” in drinking water and wastewater treatment. However, recent developments hold some hope for addressing forever...more
August. Dog days of summer. And also the best time to take a relaxing stroll along the beach. But where? Public beaches are often still crammed if you can find a place to park. But many of us know of a public access path to...more
As a consequence of the efforts by EPA and state environmental authorities throughout New England and beyond to update wastewater treatment requirements, including management of the sludge produced, significant questions and...more
Those of us who had the good fortune to vacation on Cape Cod as children in the 1960s or 1970s remember a fabulous vacation escape with miles of pristine beaches, cozy cottages, souvenirs, and wonderful food. Many who...more