Symposium Addresses Sustainability Practices

Sustainability, a concept once discussed only in scientific or eco-centric circles, has entered the vernacular, yet how to apply or achieve sustainability remains elusive.  On Friday, scholars and legal experts will gather at the University of Houston to address how to meet mankind's present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.

The Environmental & Energy Law & Policy Journal's fifth annual symposium, "Sustainability: Moving from Theory to Practical Application," will draw leading academic experts and practitioners to assess the merits and possible downsides of the sustainability movement.  Lawyers and scholars working in a variety of disciplines will explore how sustainability is influencing the environmental and energy policies.

"Recognition of the concept of sustainability is gaining significance in areas ranging from energy policy to urban planning," said Irma Russell, a professor at the University of Tulsa College of Law and the symposium's visiting faculty adviser. "In fact, sustainability is about the long-term future survival of life on the planet."

William H. Rodgers, a professor at the University of Washington School of Law who is recognized as the founder of environmental law, will deliver the opening keynote address.

"Bill Rodgers is the leading academic in environmental law.  His hornbook on environmental law is the starting place for both lawyers and academics on issues relating to the environment," Russell said. "Dr. Cris Eugster, the chief officer for sustainable growth for the city of Houston, is our luncheon keynote speaker and will talk about local sustainability programs."

Other speakers with local ties include Aston Hinds, environmental affairs manager for the Port of Houston Authority; Carol E. Dinkins, partner at Vinson & Elkins; Tracy D. Hester, partner with Bracewell & Giuliani; James B. Blackburn Jr. and Charles Irvine of Blackburn & Carter; and Debra Tsuchiyama Baker, founding partner of Connelly, Baker, Wotring.

The symposium will be held from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the University of Houston Hilton Hotel and Conference Center. Registration fees are $150 for general admission, $99 for government employees, free to students who have identification and who have registered early or $25 at the door. There is a special rate for sponsors of the Center for Environment, Energy & Natural Resources Law.

Attendees will receive seven hours of continuing legal education credit.

To register, contact briefcase@uh.edu or call 713-743-2201.

WHAT: "Sustainability: Moving from Theory to Practical Application" symposium
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 6; registration and continental breakfast from 7:45 a.m. to 8:15 a.m.; conference from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
WHO: Lawyers and scholars working in a variety of disciplines
WHERE: University of Houston Hilton and Conference Center; University of Houston Entrance 1


About the University of Houston
The University of Houston, Texas' premier metropolitan research and teaching institution, is home to more than 40 research centers and institutes and sponsors more than 300 partnerships with corporate, civic and governmental entities.  UH, the most diverse research university in the country, stands at the forefront of education, research and service with more than 36,000 students.  

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