Category Archives: Regulatory issues
Keystone XL Pipeline Environmental Impact Statement released
The US Department of State issued an environmental impact assessment on the Keystone XL pipeline last week. The assessment includes a comprehensive review of the revised route including an environmental impacts analysis. The White House does not have a deadline … Continue reading
40 years of the Endangered Species Act
The Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 marked its 40th anniversary on December 28, 2013 prompting reflection on the health of our ecological systems – particularly on the impact of the ESA over the last 40 years. As with many … Continue reading
North Dakota shale play driving demand for environmental due diligence
The North Dakota shale boom is an exciting spectacle to behold. I traveled there last spring and was amazed by the new opportunities and tremendous amount of activity. As I drove into Williston, I was amazed to see so much … Continue reading
TCEQ proposes weakening surface water quality standards
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has proposed revised surface water quality standards. The proposed rule language was published in the September 13, 2013 edition of the Texas Register. The revisions would create a new category for recreational waters, … Continue reading
The end of coal? EPA announces carbon emission limits for new power plants
The Environmental Protection Agency has announced the first-ever carbon limits on new power plants in the United States. The move is an executive action as President Obama acts to bypass Congress. House Republicans have denounced CO2 limits as a “war … Continue reading
ASTM E-1527 revisions open for public comment
The EPA has issued a Federal Register notice indicating that the proposed changes to ASTM 1527 are open for public comment until September 13, 2013. The revised standard (E1527-13) will be effective 90 days from the close of the … Continue reading