Pennsylvania’s constitution contains the strongest environmental rights amendment (ERA) in the country. Notwithstanding the power of the ERA, it remains little known among officials at all levels of government. The ERA affirms the right of all, including future generations, to a livable environment and the duty of all officials, elected and appointed, to act as trustees for the environment. Providing guidance for implementation of the ERA for municipal solicitors and elected and appointed officials at all levels of government, this program spotlights the urgent need to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and to provide for adaptation to a hotter climate and unprecedented flooding, especially for underserved communities. Industry leaders gather to discuss the ERA and its intersection with the climate crisis we are presently facing, legislation and case law, implementation of the ERA, and climate control mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Summary of Contents:
- Climate Crisis, Public Health, and the ERA’s Call to Action
- ERA in the Courts
- Implementation - Municipal
- Mitigation