Environmental Law Stories

by Richard J. Lazarus, Oliver Houck

The stories in this book feature characters as diverse as community activists, small farmers, big businesses, dedicated scientists, skilled lawyers, strong-willed judges, and Presidents of the United States. Four of the ten selected cases established the field of environmental law, three others refined it, and the final three have sought to limit its effectiveness and reach. This selection mirrors the development of the field of environmental law, from the first, heady days of its creation to its current conflicts with other laws and values, including some embedded in the Constitution.

Genres: Law, Nonfiction, Environment

361 pages, Paperback

First published July 20, 2005

Reviews

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating read on how environmental protection - typically regulations to enact Congressional directives - has been upheld or undermined by litigation and court decisions. The chapters provide great background on ten important cases, the principles at stake and the ultimate court decisions. Makes me want to look into related court decisions since the book was published (2005), and to read other books in the "law stories" series.

[Mac Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like environmental law it is interesting to read the stories behind the famous cases. Some of the chapters are slow reads, but some others are very insightful. I especially liked chapters about Boomer and SWANCC and Reserve Mining cases.