Some Thoughts on the Interdisciplinary Aspects of Environmental Enforcement
11 Pages Posted: 26 Aug 2009
Abstract
A multitude of parties are involved in the enforcement of environmental laws. Attorneys, scientists, investigators and other trained professionals working at the federal, state and local levels are all necessary to ensure compliance, and the key to effective enforcement of environmental laws is teamwork. This article explores that facet of environmental enforcement, focusing on environmental enforcement personnel within the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It examines the typical circumstances under which civil and criminal cases are brought, describes the various skills different players bring to the table during the enforcement process, and presents an ideal model of interdisciplinary enforcement cooperation. The piece reviews the historical background of environmental enforcement and the trends that have taken place at EPA over the years, and it offers some recommendations to promote effective teamwork in the years to come.
Keywords: environmental enforcement, EPA enforcement
JEL Classification: K32
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation