People Places Planet

In this special episode of People Places Planet, host Sebastian Duque Rios speaks with Ben Grumbles, president of the Environmental Council of the States (ECOS), and state environmental leaders James Kenney (New Mexico Environment Department), Chris Wells (Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality), and Leah Feldon (Oregon Department of Environmental Quality). The conversation marks the recognition of ECOS and Ben as the recipients of the Environmental Law Institute’s 2025 Environmental Achievement Award, honoring their commitment to bipartisan collaboration and science-based environmental governance.Together, they explore how states are leading the way on today’s most pressing challenges—from ensuring safe drinking water and cleaning up Superfund sites to advancing policy on PFAS and wildfire impacts. The discussion examines what's at stake when federal funding for state environmental programs falls short, why strong federal-state partnerships are essential for local economies, the risks of underfunding science at EPA, and how states are working to balance efficiency with integrity when it comes to permitting. The episode celebrates ECOS' leadership in strengthening cooperative federalism, fostering innovative solutions, and providing stability across administrations, while also offering insights into the future of environmental protection nationwide. ★ Support this podcast ★

Plastic packaging is everywhere—from grocery store shelves to e-commerce deliveries—and it’s one of the largest contributors to global plastic waste. In this episode of People, Places, Planet, host Dara Albrecht is joined by Caroline DeLoach (Atlantic Packaging), Daniel Zlatnik (CalRecycle), and Dacie Meng (Ellen MacArthur Foundation). Together, they unpack the complexities of the packaging market, the developments reshaping it, and the promise of a circular economy.The conversation explores the environmental, social, and health impacts of the way packaging is produced, used, and disposed of, the role of extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws in shifting costs and incentives upstream, and innovations—from AI-powered recycling to closed-loop reuse systems. The discussion also takes a deep dive into California's landmark SB 54, examining how its ambitious goals could influence policy nationwide. With perspectives spanning policy, law, and industry, the episode offers an in-depth look at how international treaties, state-level regulations, and private-sector action are converging to address the plastic waste crisis and make packaging more sustainable.Current State of Plastic Production and Waste (01:32)Towards a Circular Economy (13:07)International Efforts to Address Plastic Waste (17:14)Innovations and the Role of the Private Sector (21:17)Consumer Choices and Sustainable Packaging (35:19)Introduction to EPR (37:36)California's EPR Law and Its Features (48:04)Closing Thoughts (01:01:47)This episode was recorded on June 20, 2025, prior to the start of INC-5.2, which is currently underway. The discussion may not reflect the most recent developments. For up-to-date information, please visit UNEP's website. ★ Support this podcast ★

Environmental law is complex, technical, and often inaccessible to the very people it’s meant to protect. In this special episode of People, Places, Planet, host Dara Albrecht sits down with members of the ELI podcast team—Associate Vice President of Communications Nick Collins, Communications Associate Maya Sokoloff, and Research Associate and incoming host Sebastian Duque—for a candid conversation about the challenges and opportunities of making complex legal and scientific information accessible in a noisy, fast-paced digital world.Together, they unpack why communicating environmental law and policy is so difficult and why getting it right matters more than ever. From navigating jargon and political polarization to telling stories that resonate with everyday experiences, the team reflects on the tools, trade-offs, and real-world examples that shape their approach. ★ Support this podcast ★

What is CERCLA, and why does it matter for environmental law and justice? In this episode of People, Places, Planet, host Dara Albrecht sits down with environmental law veterans Mike McLaughlin, Sam Boxerman, and Jack Raffetto to unpack the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act—better known as Superfund. From the law’s dramatic origins in the wake of toxic disasters like Love Canal to its far-reaching liability framework and complex cleanup process, this episode explains how CERCLA works, who’s held accountable, and how it continues to evolve. You’ll hear about EPA enforcement strategies, the role of community input, and major updates like PFAS regulation. Whether you’re new to environmental law or deep in the weeds, this episode offers a comprehensive, engaging breakdown of one of the most powerful environmental laws in the U.S. ★ Support this podcast ★

If you're interested in purchasing Adapting to High Level Warming: Law, Governance, and Equity, please visit ELI's website for more information.What happens when climate projections exceed our current legal frameworks and planning models? In this episode of People Places Planet, host Dara Albrecht explores the provocative premise behind Adapting to High Level Warming, the fifth volume in the Environmental Law Collaborative’s book series published by ELI Press. Joined by editors Katrina Kuh and Shannon Roesler, as well as chapter authors Sarah Fox and Kevin Lynch, the conversation delves into how legal scholars are grappling with the likelihood of 3–4°C warming scenarios.Fox introduces the concept of “climate-changed communities” and the pressures local governments face as they adapt to new environmental realities. Lynch discusses the double-edged nature of preemption law, which can either enable or obstruct needed climate action at the local level. With commentary from editors Katrina Kuh and Shannon Roesler, the conversation highlights how law and governance must be reimagined and stretched to meet the needs of a radically changed climate. With insights ranging from historic preservation to energy policy, this episode underscores why preparing for worst-case scenarios is no longer alarmist—but necessary.Featured chapters:Climate-Changed Communities (07:53) by Sarah Fox.Preemption: Opportunities and Obstacles for Climate Adaptation (31:39) by Kevin J. Lynch. ★ Support this podcast ★

Wetlands play a critical role in protecting communities from climate change, but restoring and sustaining them in a shifting climate is no easy task. In this episode of People, Places, Planet, host Dara Albrecht examines the impact of climate change on wetland sites through the lens of compensatory mitigation, a process through which developers offset permitted impacts to wetlands and streams by funding or conducting ecological restoration elsewhere, and how, if at all, mitigation practitioners are responding to ensure climate resiliency in their projects. Guests Dr. Meghan Halabisky, Dave Groves, and Karen Johnson bring different perspectives to the table: Halabisky offers a scientific overview of how climate change is impacting wetlands, while Groves and Johnson discuss the regulatory and practical constraints and opportunities that practitioners are facing. The conversation covers site planning, ecological monitoring, and the tension between policy requirements and the realities of climate adaptation. Rather than prescribing easy solutions, the episode explores the complexities of ensuring long term sustainability at mitigation sites experiencing climate change.  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this special ELPAR edition of People, Places, Planet, host Dara Albrecht is joined by guest co-hosts Linda Breggin and Mara Pusic to explore one of this year’s top Environmental Law and Policy Annual Review (ELPAR) articles: “A Contractual Relationship with Environmental Justice,” authored by Professor Seema Kakade. Joined by guests Maia Hutt of the Southern Environmental Law Center and Shanika Amarakoon of Eastern Research Group, this episode dives into the potential of corporate-community agreements as a tool for environmental justice. Professor Kakade lays out a bold proposal for environmental nonprofits to establish transactional legal practice groups focused on supporting communities in negotiating legally binding agreements with polluting industries. Together, the group discusses the promise and pitfalls of such agreements, from trust-building and legal enforceability to tailoring support for under-resourced communities and ensuring long-term accountability. They also reflect on the challenges of shifting environmental justice strategies in the face of evolving federal priorities. Whether you’re a policymaker, practitioner, or student of environmental law, this conversation offers innovative, on-the-ground approaches to equity and environmental protection. To view the other top articles selected this year, visit the ELPAR page on ELI's website. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of People Places Planet, host Dara Albrecht is joined by Jeffrey Peterson, environmental policy expert and author of A New Coast: Strategies for Responding to Devastating Storms and Rising Seas. Together, they unpack the science behind sea level rise, its regional impacts, and the urgent challenges it poses for coastal communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems. The conversation explores the key drivers of sea level rise, regional vulnerabilities across the U.S., and the growing risks tied to accelerating climate change. Peterson also dives into the legal and policy dimensions of adaptation, discussing land use controls, managed retreat, insurance frameworks, and emerging litigation around takings and government responsibility. The episode highlights how sea level rise will reshape planning, governance, and community resilience for generations to come. Listeners interested in learning more about legal and policy responses to climate impacts can visit ELI's Climate Judiciary Project website to explore additional resources, including the new Sea Level Rise module. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this installment of the People Places Planet Explained Series, host Dara Albrecht is joined by Robin Rotman, Assistant Professor at the University of Missouri, and Camille Pannu, Associate Professor at Columbia Law School and Director of the Environmental and Climate Justice Clinic, to break down the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)—the cornerstone law protecting America's drinking water. The conversation covers SDWA’s origins, its regulatory reach over public water systems, and the emerging challenges tied to small system compliance, contaminants like PFAS, and growing infrastructure needs. Rotman and Pannu explain key concepts such as maximum contaminant levels, variances, citizen suits, and the relationship between SDWA and the Clean Water Act. They also discuss notable cases like Des Moines Water Works and Flint, Michigan, and examine how funding limitations and legal battles shape drinking water protections today. Looking forward, they reflect on future developments in private well regulation, point-of-use treatment technologies, and technical assistance for vulnerable communities. This episode offers an essential primer for anyone interested in how public health, environmental law, and infrastructure converge at the tap.Correction: The percentage of homes not on a regulated water system in the United States is roughly 15 to 20 percent, not 30 percent as cited in a former version of this episode. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this special episode of People Places Planet, host Dara Albrecht and ELI Senior Attorney Linda Breggin take us to Nashville for Food Waste Prevention Week, where local leaders across sectors are driving innovative efforts to reduce food waste. With nearly one-third of U.S. food going uneaten each year—impacting the environment, economy, and communities—this conversation showcases how one city is tackling the challenge head-on.Linda speaks with four inspiring guests whose work spans K-12 education, higher ed, hospitality, and professional sports:Todd Lawrence (04:28), Executive Director of Urban Green Lab, explains how training teachers and conducting school cafeteria waste audits are empowering the next generation to take action.David ter Kuile (18:32), Associate Vice Chancellor at Vanderbilt University, walks us through how campus dining hit its zero waste goals through composting, waste tracking, and student engagement.Tyler Lee (34:44), Executive Chef at 1 Hotel Nashville, shares how local sourcing, zero-waste cocktails, and creative kitchen strategies are changing the hospitality landscape.Haley Davidson (49:48), Chief of Staff for the Tennessee Titans, describes how Nashville’s NFL team is designing a new LEED Gold stadium with food waste reduction in mind—and how it’s already making a difference at Nissan Stadium.From teaching tools to technology to teamwork, this episode explores scalable strategies for reducing food waste and building more resilient communities. Whether you're in a school, university, restaurant, or stadium, there's something here for everyone. Related Links:ELI's Center for State and Local Governance, Food Waste InitiativeUrban Green Lab resources on food waste reductionFood Waste Warrior AuditJames Beard Foundation and Nashville Food Waste Initiative Food Scrap Cooking DemonstrationWaste Not Cooking Competition ★ Support this podcast ★

Nutritious food in schools is essential for student health, academic success, and a more sustainable future. In this episode of People Places Planet, host Dara Albrecht is joined by Linda Breggin, Senior Attorney at the Environmental Law Institute, along with Nancy Weiss, a chef and former Director of Food Services at Santa Barbara Unified School District, and Audrey Sanchez, Executive Director of Balanced, a nonprofit working to improve public health through healthier food environments. Together, they explore how thoughtful school food policies and plant-based menu innovations can improve student wellness while supporting environmental goals. The episode highlights local success stories, including how Santa Barbara became a national leader in integrating plant-based proteins, and discusses practical strategies—from menu analysis to procurement planning and student engagement—that schools can use to create healthier, more inclusive food programs. The conversation also touches on the importance of leadership, community involvement, and systemic support in advancing nutrition equity and sustainability in public schools. ★ Support this podcast ★

Each year, around one billion birds die from collisions with buildings in the United States—an alarming but preventable crisis driven by modern glass architecture. In this episode of People Places Planet, host Dara Albrecht is joined by Viveca Morris of Yale Law School, Dan Piselli of FXCollaborative Architects, and Christine Sheppard of the American Bird Conservancy to explore the scope of the problem and the innovative solutions taking flight. The conversation highlights how science, design, and public policy are coming together to reduce bird-building collisions, with a focus on local laws in cities like New York and San Francisco that are driving industry change. The episode also touches on practical considerations (including challenges) in implementing these policies and the creative ways architects and policymakers are working to make buildings safer for birds—without compromising aesthetics or functionality. Listeners will gain insight into how legal frameworks, community action, and industry innovation are transforming the built environment to better protect wildlife. ★ Support this podcast ★

Environmental defenders play a critical role in safeguarding natural resources and advocating for human rights, yet they face severe threats—including harassment, violence, and even murder. In this episode of People Places Planet, host Dara Albrecht is joined by ELI staff attorney, Kristine Perry, to discuss the challenges environmental defenders encounter worldwide. They explore the staggering risks defenders face, gaps in legal enforcement, and how intersecting identities and extractive industries heighten these dangers. The episode also introduces ELI’s new platform to track the prosecution and enforcement of crimes against environmental defenders. Kristine explains how the project—starting in Brazil, Colombia, Honduras, and Mexico—aims to combat impunity and bring accountability to those responsible for attacks. Tune in to learn about the urgent need for protections and how these threats impact communities, ecosystem, and global environmental governance. Listener discretion is advised due to sensitive content regarding violence against environmental defenders.  ★ Support this podcast ★

Bees and other pollinators are vital to ecosystems and agriculture, yet their populations face mounting threats from climate change, habitat loss, and pesticide use. In this episode of People Places Planet, Rebecca Riley, Managing Director of Food and Agriculture at the Natural Resources Defense Council, and Saff Killingsworth, an Endangered Species Conservation Biologist at the Xerces Society, join host Dara Albrecht to explore how legal frameworks and science intersect to address these challenges. They discuss legislative milestones like New York’s Birds and Bees Protection Act, the role of extinction risk assessments, and how scientific research on pollinator behavior and habitat can shape effective policies. This episode details the importance of science-informed legal frameworks in safeguarding pollinators and the ecosystems they support. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this special update episode of People Places Planet, host Dara Albrecht revisits the landmark youth-led climate case, Held v. State of Montana, after the Montana Supreme Court's ruling in December 2024. Building on the original September 2023 episode, ELI Senior Attorney and Director of the Climate Judiciary Project Helene Krasnoff joins returning ELI Staff Attorney Jarryd Page in conversation with Dara to discuss the Montana Supreme Court's recent decision affirming the trial court’s ruling in favor of the youth plaintiffs. The episode explores the legal significance of the ruling, how Montana agencies are beginning to incorporate climate considerations into environmental reviews, and the broader implications for climate litigation nationwide. Stay tuned after the update to hear the original episode featuring former host Sarah Backer, Jarryd Page, and Science and Policy Analyst John Doherty for foundational insights into the case.  ★ Support this podcast ★

The International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) plays a crucial role in managing U.S.-Mexico border water resources, overseeing treaties that impact millions of people. In this episode of People Places Planet, Commissioner Maria Elena Giner, a civil engineer and veteran in border environmental issues, joins host Dara Albrecht to discuss the IBWC's efforts to address challenges like water scarcity, infrastructure needs, and binational cooperation. They explore groundbreaking agreements like Minute 331, which brings greater predictability to water deliveries from Mexico, and the IBWC's strategies for building climate resilience. This episode provides insight into how legal frameworks, technical expertise, and cross-border collaboration are driving solutions to complex water management challenges in border communities.  ★ Support this podcast ★

Data centers supporting artificial intelligence consume staggering amounts of electricity, with their energy demands projected to potentially account for up to 10% of total U.S. electricity consumption by 2030—posing both challenges and opportunities for clean energy goals. In this episode of People Places Planet, Jed Anderson, CEO and founder of EnviroAI, and Bob Sussman, a seasoned environmental lawyer and former senior EPA official, join host Dara Albrecht to explore the intersection of AI and the environment. They discuss how AI is transforming environmental protection, from enabling real-time regulatory improvements to empowering under-resourced communities. The conversation also examines the risks posed by AI's energy consumption and its role in climate change, as well as the potential for AI to revolutionize environmental law and sustainability efforts. ★ Support this podcast ★

More than 35 states have introduced or drafted environmental justice laws as of 2023, and 14 of those states have implemented at least 21 new laws focused on environmental justice. In this episode of People Places Planet, ELI's Environmental Justice Law Clerk, Juliette Stanley, joins host Dara Albrecht to discuss environmental justice policies on the state level, and how they might be impacting change nationwide. They review the current landscape of environmental justice on the national and state levels and explore how past events shape current actions of states on this issue.  ★ Support this podcast ★

At the Environmental Law Institute, interns have the opportunity to develop independent research projects based off their interests. In this episode of the People Places Planet Podcast, ELI’s summer interns, Sarah Cheung and Aneeza Ahmad, join host Dara Albrecht to share more about who they are, their independent research on the 30x30 Initiative in California and on Environmental Justice in the Farm Bill, and lessons they've taken from their time at ELI. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this week’s episode of People Places Planet Podcast, three of ELI's four outgoing Research Associates (Sarah Backer, Ella Stack, and Tori Rickman) sit down with host Dara Albrecht to reflect on their experiences as Research Associates. The three share who they are, what brought them to ELI, the research projects they worked on, and the lessons they will take with them moving forward.  ★ Support this podcast ★