Environmental Law Society Symposium
The Cleveland State University Environmental Law Society is hosting its first annual Spring Climate Conference at the University's College of Law on February 28, 2025. The Conference will feature policymakers, lawyers, and scientists discussing environmental pressures on Ohio's lands, air, and waters, as well as the policy shaping our state's energy mix, how local programs are working to reflect their citizens' preferences on energy, and what the administrative process for siting power generation facilities in Ohio entails. Law students from Cleveland State University and Case Western Reserve University will engage with panels discussing a number of efforts to conserve and protect their communities' lands and waters.
PROGRAM AGENDA
9:00 - 9:05 AM Opening Remarks by Dean Lee Fisher, Cleveland State University College of Law
9:05 – 10:00 AM Panel Discussion with Theresa Wolanin, Rosalina Fini, Emily Bacha and Dr. Jeffrey Johansen
Panelists will discuss biodiversity trends locally and abroad and the state and federal statutes that provide some safeguarding against species extinction; harmful algae blooms; the permission for various environmental program and solar photovoltaic installation by the Cleveland Metroparks; and an overall view of Ohio’s environmental issues, laws & programs.
Moderator: Kendall McPherson, Case Western Reserve University
10:05 – 11:30 AM Panel Discussion with Mike Wise, Mike Foley, Karin Nordstrom and Dr. Mark Shanahan
This panel will discuss energy policy in Ohio; County utility Cuyahoga Green Energy, the nations first publicly owned micrgrid utililty; energy siting in Ohio and the application process for certificates of environmental compatibility and public need; and broader energy policy considerations and statutes in Ohio.
Moderator: Andrew Thomas, Cleveland State University
11:30 AM Closing Remarks with Dr. Heidi Gorovitz Robertson, Cleveland State University College of Law