From Superfund to Solar: Prof. Michael Gerrard on the Evolution of Environmental Law

Environmental law has shifted dramatically over the last few decades. What started as a battle against pollution and hazardous waste has evolved into a massive sector focused on the energy transition and infrastructure development. Michael Gerrard shares stories from his 30-year career in private practice, including his work on the environmental permitting for the World Trade Center redevelopment after 9/11.

Key Takeaways:

Rebuilding History: The unique challenges of managing environmental review for the World Trade Center site.
The Energy Transition: How the field is moving from "anti-pollution" lawsuits to facilitating the construction of renewable energy and transmission.
Collaborative Practice: The intellectual reward of working alongside engineers, hydrologists, and biologists to solve complex problems.
The "Adjacent" Fields: Why students should look into Water Law (especially in the West) and Toxic Torts.

(00:00) - Introduction: Why Environmental Law is the Most Tangible Field
(02:45) - From West Virginia to Big Law: Michael Gerrard’s Career Path
(05:45) - Case Study: Permitting the World Trade Center Redevelopment After 9/11
(07:23) - Myth Buster: Do You Need a Science Degree to Practice Environmental Law?
(08:56) - The Shift: Moving from Pollution Control to the Energy Transition
(12:15) - Shared Values: Working in NGOs vs. Large Law Firms
(14:24) - Specialization: Clean Air Act, Water Law, and Toxic Torts
(18:58) - 1L Advice: Why You Should Take "Tax" and "Corporations"
(22:42) - Best Resources: Legal Planet, Grist, and Student Journals
(24:02) - Current Landscape: Navigating Regulatory Changes and Political Shifts
(25:37) - Finding Hope: Solar Prices, EVs, and the Role of Law in the Climate Crisis
(28:08) - Host Debrief: Why Environmental Law Touches Every Practice Area
(32:59) - Curriculum Chat: Water Law and Renewable Energy Courses

Click here to view the episode transcript.

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