Citizen suits against polluters: picking up the pace

Journal Article · Tue Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1985 · Harv. Environ. Law Rev.; (United States)

OSTI ID:5622559

Fadil, A

Citizen suits can play a role in the enforcement of environmental regulations. Noncompliance is an extensive problem, one that threatens basic social values and is likely to continue. Alternative market-based approaches are unlikely to have a widespread implementation for years to come, and are unlikely to supplant the need for some third-party enforcement. The author explores the extent to which citizen suits are brought and how they can become more effective enforcement devices. While noting the general dearth of citizen enforcement, he also traces the development of the recent upsurge in actions under the Clean Water Act. Specific legal changes will probably not spur large-scale citizen enforcement, but requirements for more comprehensive and comprehensible reports from polluters, a literal construction of diligent prosecution in a court by the courts, and congressional authorization for civil penalties will help.

• OSTI ID: 5622559
• Journal Information: Harv. Environ. Law Rev.; (United States), Journal Name: Harv. Environ. Law Rev.; (United States) Vol. 9:1; ISSN HELRD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
290300* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Environment
Health
& Safety
CLEAN WATER ACT
ENFORCEMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
GOVERNMENT POLICIES
IMPLEMENTATION
LAWS
LAWSUITS
LEGAL INCENTIVES
POLLUTION LAWS
POLLUTION REGULATIONS
PUBLIC POLICY
REGULATIONS