Virtually every sector of the modern economy introduces toxic material into the environment, from energy production and consumption to industrial activity, transportation, and more. As these toxins find their way into drinking water, the land surrounding homes and businesses, and everyday consumer products, they can have detrimental effects on health and, eventually, the broader economy.

EPIC scholars are advancing knowledge of the social, economic and legal ramifications of environmental damage—from studying how the effects of pesticides on bat populations can influence people’s health to learning how power plants affect home values and birth weight. Meanwhile, partners at the Abrams Environmental Law Clinic are working with organizations to encourage further protection of water, air and all environmental resources. Together, this work is helping to educate policymakers and consumers on the potentially detrimental effects of environmental pollution and empowering them with the tools to effect change.