Trends

The Alberta government has accepted a recommendation to establish standards for the release of treated oilsands tailings into the environment. This plan addresses the nearly 1.4 trillion liters of toxic byproducts currently stored. From an ESG perspective, an expert witness would be crucial in evaluating this plan. They could testify on the environmental risks, questioning the effectiveness and safety of current treatment technologies mentioned in the report. Socially, they could speak to the significant concerns of Indigenous communities and the potential impact on the Athabasca River. On governance, they could analyze the collaborative framework proposed between industry, communities, and government, assessing its potential for ensuring responsible and scientifically sound tailings management.

In response to President Trump's energy agenda, the EPA has proposed a rollback of climate and power plant regulations. This includes repealing the Biden-era Carbon Pollution Standards and returning to the original 2012 Mercury and Air Toxics Standards. These actions prioritize economic competitiveness, are expected to be challenged legally, and could make project economics more predictable for power developers.

Anti-ESG laws challenge ecology investments. Experts can use damage assessments in resource cases, drawing from state challenges. Takeaways: Quantify biodiversity losses for US liability claims.

Shifts in DEI disclosures due to legal scrutiny. Experts can testify on compliance with anti-DEI laws, analyzing workforce data. Key: Balance transparency with risk, using qualitative metrics in US cases.

EU ESG rules affect US safety litigation. Experts can testify on human rights in workplaces, emphasizing safety metrics. Key: Integrate ESG into compliance defenses.