Landmark Environmental Court Cases

Landmark environmental court cases shape the landscape of environmental policy and law. These rulings address critical issues like federal authority, standing to sue, and the protection of endangered species, influencing how we tackle environmental challenges today.

1. Massachusetts v. Environmental Protection Agency (2007)

   • The Supreme Court ruled that the EPA has the authority to regulate greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act.
   • The case established that states have standing to sue the federal government over environmental issues.
   • It highlighted the importance of federal action in addressing climate change.

2. Sierra Club v. Morton (1972)

   • The Supreme Court ruled that environmental organizations do not have standing to sue on behalf of natural resources.
   • The case emphasized the need for individuals to demonstrate personal injury to have legal standing.
   • It raised questions about the legal rights of nature and the role of advocacy groups in environmental protection.

3. Tennessee Valley Authority v. Hill (1978)

   • The Supreme Court upheld the Endangered Species Act, prioritizing species protection over economic development.
   • The case involved the construction of a dam that threatened the habitat of the snail darter fish.
   • It reinforced the principle that environmental laws can halt projects that endanger endangered species.

4. Chevron U.S.A., Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. (1984)

   • The Supreme Court established the "Chevron deference," allowing agencies to interpret ambiguous statutes.
   • The case involved the EPA's interpretation of the Clean Air Act regarding pollution control.
   • It underscored the role of administrative agencies in environmental regulation and policy implementation.

5. Lujan v. Defenders of Wildlife (1992)

   • The Supreme Court ruled that plaintiffs must demonstrate a concrete injury to have standing in environmental cases.
   • The case involved the Endangered Species Act and the scope of federal jurisdiction.
   • It set a precedent for the requirement of specific harm in environmental litigation.

6. Georgia v. Tennessee Copper Co. (1907)

   • The Supreme Court ruled in favor of Georgia, ordering Tennessee Copper to cease pollution affecting Georgia's air quality.
   • It was one of the first cases addressing interstate pollution and environmental harm.
   • The case established the principle of state sovereignty in protecting natural resources from out-of-state pollution.

7. Scenic Hudson Preservation Conference v. Federal Power Commission (1965)

   • The court ruled that citizens have the right to challenge federal decisions affecting the environment.
   • The case involved a proposed hydroelectric project that threatened scenic and ecological values.
   • It emphasized the importance of public participation in environmental decision-making.

8. United States v. Reserve Mining Co. (1974)

   • The court found that Reserve Mining's operations were polluting Lake Superior and ordered them to cease operations.
   • The case highlighted the federal government's role in enforcing environmental laws.
   • It underscored the significance of protecting water quality from industrial pollution.

9. Citizens to Preserve Overton Park v. Volpe (1971)

   • The Supreme Court ruled that federal agencies must consider environmental impacts before approving projects.
   • The case involved a proposed highway through a public park and the need for environmental review.
   • It established the requirement for judicial review of agency decisions affecting the environment.

10. Rapanos v. United States (2006)

    • The Supreme Court addressed the scope of federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act.
    • The case involved the definition of "navigable waters" and the extent of federal regulatory authority.
    • It resulted in a split decision, creating ambiguity in the regulation of wetlands and waterways.