Worldwide: Environment

Tennessee became the first state in the United States to implement a fusion-specific regulatory framework that aligns with a federal regulatory template on 9 June 2026. Administered by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation’s Division of Radiological Health (Division), the framework establishes state-level licensing and registration structure for fusion machines and fusion processes.

The D.C. Circuit Court has upheld EPA's designation of PFOA and PFOS as CERCLA hazardous substances, rejecting all industry challenges and confirming significant compliance and liability implications for companies. This decision establishes that these "forever chemicals" can now form the basis for federal Superfund response actions and cost-recovery claims, while leaving broader questions about PFAS regulation and enforcement still in motion.

On July 21, CARB hosted a public workshop to clarify the near-term implementation path for SB 253, focusing on reporting deadlines, phased Scope 3 reporting, insurance-company treatment, and assurance. During the workshop, CARB introduced a new initial reporting deadline of November 10, 2026 for Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions reporting, and discussed phased-in Scope 3 reporting beginning in 2027. CARB also signaled that future rules will rely heavily on the GHG Protocol, including disclosures on methodology, boundaries, emissions factors, data sources, and global warming potential values, and previewed expected future application of the climate reporting laws to insurance companies.

Chicago has become the latest city to push back against new data center development. On August 11, 2026, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson signed Executive Order 2026-5, titled “Protecting Chicagoans’ Clean Water, Clean Air, Energy Affordability, and Quality of Life.” The Order establishes an enhanced regulatory framework for data center development in Chicago. In the Order, the Mayor calls on the City Council to enact a temporary moratorium on new data center construction and material expansions of existing facilities.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) continues to refine the implementation of California’s landmark greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting law, the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act (SB 253). During a public workshop held on July 21, 2026...

California environmental regulators advance new pollution controls while federal agencies shift course on power plant emissions and pipeline approvals. Major infrastructure projects including dam retrofits...

The Texas Environmental Superconference convened leading regulators, industry representatives, and environmental practitioners to examine critical developments in environmental and natural resources law. What are the most pressing issues facing environmental policy today, from data centers and water management to climate transition and enforcement strategies?

This comprehensive alert examines the most significant environmental policy developments across Latin America from April to June 2026, covering major legislative reforms, conservation initiatives, and international cooperation efforts. From Chile's expansion of marine reserves to Mexico's proposed overhaul of environmental law, and Colombia's pioneering conference on fossil fuel elimination, the report analyzes how governments are reshaping environmental governance. The alert provides critical insights into

California's climate disclosure regime is undergoing rapid transformation through regulatory developments, implementation guidance, and litigation. This legal update examines the latest developments affecting SB 253 and SB 261, including the California Air Resources Board's revised rulemaking and extended compliance timelines that will impact companies doing business in California.

On Aug. 18, 2026, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed Executive Order 2026-05 (EO 2026-05). The order directs state agencies — principally the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Department of Revenue (DOR), and Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) — to condition certain permitting, tax, and incentive-related actions on compliance with the governor’s Responsible Infrastructure Development (GRID) Requirements.

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) imposes significant obligations on real estate developers and property owners, including prohibitions on unauthorized take of listed species and mandatory federal consultation requirements. Understanding ESA compliance requirements, incidental take permits, and conservation planning options is essential for navigating development projects that may affect threatened or endangered species or their designated critical habitats.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is preparing comprehensive revisions to its pesticide regulations and seeking stakeholder input on implementation of the Birds and Bees Protection Act, which will restrict neonicotinoid pesticides and treated seeds. A virtual meeting scheduled for August 2026 will cover certification requirements, commercial permits, pesticide use restrictions, and the critical agricultural waiver process for treated seeds before the 2029 effective date.