Environmental

Navigating Legal Complexities in Data Centers: Balancing Environmental Impact and Technological Dependence

Pieter Gunst04 mins

The legal landscape surrounding data centers is increasingly complex, as these essential infrastructures face growing scrutiny from various stakeholders. The debate is encapsulated by the paradox noted by attorney Stuart Lieberman, “Nobody wants them, and yet everybody wants to use ChatGPT,” highlighting the tension between environmental concerns and technological dependency. This sentiment reflects the ongoing…

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California Wineries Adapt Strategies to Navigate Economic and Environmental Challenges

Pieter Gunst03 mins

The California wine industry, a cornerstone of the state’s economy, is currently facing serious distress due to various factors including climate change, economic pressures, and shifting consumer preferences. According to Bloomberg Law, many winery owners are exploring strategies to protect their assets amid these challenges. One of the prominent measures being employed is restructuring debt….

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Australia Seeks $1.4 Billion from 3M in Landmark PFAS Contamination Lawsuit

Pieter Gunst03 mins

Australia has initiated legal proceedings against 3M, seeking $1.4 billion in damages related to contamination caused by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.” The lawsuit contends that 3M, a prominent multinational industrial giant, failed to disclose crucial information about the environmental and health hazards associated with these chemicals. This legal…

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Amnesty International Raises Concerns Over Unlawful Data Collection by Tech Giants in AI Development

Pieter Gunst03 mins

Amnesty International has expressed serious concerns regarding the data collection practices of major tech companies such as Google, Meta, and OpenAI. According to a recent report, these companies have been employing unlawful web scraping methods, gathering massive volumes of online data without user consent to develop generative AI models, thereby violating privacy rights and fundamental…

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EPA Rollback on PFAS Regulations Creates Compliance Challenges for Businesses and Lawyers

Pieter Gunst03 mins

The recent rollback of regulations by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning “forever chemicals” has raised significant compliance challenges for businesses and regulatory lawyers alike. These chemicals, technically known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are notorious for their persistence in the environment and potential health effects. The regulatory shifts under the Trump administration have…

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Gretchen Freeman Cappio: The Fierce Litigator Championing Corporate Accountability Through Groundbreaking Legal Battles

Pieter Gunst04 mins

By the time Volkswagen was exposed for falsely promoting their diesel vehicles as environmentally friendly, Gretchen Freeman Cappio of Keller Rohrback LLP had already cemented her reputation as a relentless advocate against corporate deception. Known for her tenacity in the courtroom, Cappio has become a formidable figure, especially in cases involving consumer protection and environmental…

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Perkins Coie Enhances Environmental Law Team with Hire of Andrea Campopiano, Strengthening Expertise in Energy and Climate Change Regulations

Pieter Gunst03 mins

In a strategic move that underscores its commitment to enhancing its environmental and energy law expertise, Perkins Coie has announced the hiring of Andrea Campopiano. Known for her extensive experience in navigating complex environmental regulations, Campopiano joins the firm’s Environment, Energy, and Resources practice, bringing a wealth of knowledge from both the private and public…

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Greenberg Traurig Expands Energy and Natural Resources Practice with Key Hire of Toshi Yoshida

Pieter Gunst02 mins

Greenberg Traurig, a leading law firm recognized for its expansive global reach, has announced the hiring of Toshi Yoshida to bolster its energy and natural resources practice areas. This strategic addition underscores the firm’s commitment to enhancing its capabilities in sectors critical to current global challenges. Yoshida brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked…

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Recognizing Legal Champions: Titans of the Plaintiffs Bar 2026 Reshape Justice and Corporate Accountability

Pieter Gunst03 mins

This past year, a select group of attorneys has emerged as leading figures in the plaintiffs’ legal arena, recognized by Law360 as the Titans of the Plaintiffs Bar for 2026. These ten lawyers have been pivotal in securing multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts for their clients, taking on formidable opponents such as Google, Monsanto, and even…

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China’s Shark Finning Practices Under Scrutiny as Potential US Trade Sanctions Loom

Pieter Gunst04 mins

China’s distant water fishing industry finds itself at the center of significant international scrutiny as allegations of shark finning practices emerge, potentially paving the way for serious trade repercussions with the United States. The Center for Biological Diversity, a US-based nonprofit, has initiated a formal petition urging the American government to evaluate whether China has…

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UN General Assembly Adopts Resolution Mandating Legal Obligations for Climate Action Amid Global Divides

Pieter Gunst04 mins

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has significantly reinforced global efforts to combat climate change by adopting a resolution that mandates member states to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This development comes as countries are urged to align with obligations prescribed by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as per its advisory opinion given in July…

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NJ Environmental Chief Nominee Aims to Modernize Department and Accelerate Decision-Making

Pieter Gunst02 mins

Acting New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Ed Potosnak assured state lawmakers of his commitment to enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of the agency during a recent legislative session. If confirmed, Potosnak intends to refine operations, aligning the department with current environmental challenges and regulatory demands. His approach aims to foster transparency and expedite…

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Data Centers Face Growing Legal Scrutiny Over Nuisance Claims in Digital Era

Pieter Gunst03 mins

As data centers become increasingly integral to the digital economy, their rapid expansion has sparked a surge in legal actions, utilizing traditional nuisance arguments to address contemporary issues. The core of these claims lies in the assertion that data centers cause an unreasonable interference with individuals’ use and enjoyment of their property. This well-established legal…

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State Attorneys General Heighten Antitrust Oversight, Compelling Corporate Caution in Mergers

Pieter Gunst03 mins

As state attorneys general increasingly assert their authority in antitrust enforcement, corporate lawyers are being urged to navigate the complexities of merger processes with greater caution and strategic planning. The enhanced scrutiny comes amid a backdrop of heightened regulatory vigilance, as state AGs seek to assert their jurisdiction alongside federal authorities. Historically, merger oversight primarily…

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California’s Legal Battle Against Pay-for-Delay Drug Practices: Implications for National Commerce Regulations

Pieter Gunst04 mins

In a bid to maintain regulatory authority over pharmaceutical practices, California has urged the Ninth Circuit to uphold a state law targeting “pay-for-delay” agreements. These agreements involve brand-name drugmakers paying generic competitors to delay entering the market, thereby extending their exclusive hold on drug sales. California’s Attorney General argued that the law, which extends beyond…

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PTAB Dismisses Challenges to Birchtech’s Mercury Removal Patents, Affirming Procedural Reform Efforts

Pieter Gunst03 mins

The Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) recently dismissed two challenges concerning mercury removal patents held by Birchtech Corp. The dismissals came as the board found the challengers were prioritizing different strategies for invalidating these patents. This decision highlights an ongoing issue of repetitive petitions in the technology patent landscape. The cases involved attempts to…

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Big Tech Faces Investor Pressure Over AI’s Environmental and Data Privacy Concerns

Pieter Gunst03 mins

With growing scrutiny from investors, Big Tech companies are facing pressures to address the environmental and data privacy implications of their artificial intelligence (AI) operations. Increasingly, shareholders are challenging decisions that affect climate change risks and data security vulnerabilities, leading to heightened corporate governance challenges. Recently, investors have expressed concerns over AI’s carbon footprint and…

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Sidley Austin’s Strategic Growth: Embracing Technology, Global Expansion, and Diversity in Leadership

Pieter Gunst03 mins

In a recent podcast, Yvette Ostolaza, Chair of Sidley Austin’s Management Committee, outlined the firm’s strategic growth ambitions. The focus remains squarely on expanding global reach while fostering a culture that emphasizes diversity and inclusion. Sidley Austin’s leadership aims to navigate the complexities of a shifting legal landscape, ensuring sustained growth by aligning their services…

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“NextEra and Dominion Merger Poised to Transform U.S. Utility Sector Amid Data Center Boom”

Pieter Gunst03 mins

The proposed merger between NextEra Energy and Dominion Energy signals a significant shift in the U.S. utility landscape at a time when the burgeoning demand from data centers is driving industry change. This merger, pending regulatory approval, would position the combined entity at the forefront of electricity generation across traditional and renewable sources, accentuating the…

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Clearway Energy Inc. Appoints Former NYT Legal Veteran David N. Pitofsky as Chief Legal Officer Amid Renewables Expansion

Pieter Gunst03 mins

Clearway Energy Inc., a key player in the renewable energy industry, has appointed a new leader to steer its legal affairs. The company has enlisted the expertise of a seasoned attorney from The New York Times Co., David N. Pitofsky, to serve as its chief legal officer. This strategic hiring move is indicative of Clearway’s…

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Babst Calland Welcomes Back Jeremy Mongiovi Amid Rising Trend of Law Firms Rehiring Former Partners

Pieter Gunst02 mins

Babst Calland, a noteworthy law firm, recently strengthened its roster with the return of Jeremy Mongiovi as a shareholder. Mongiovi, previously holding the post of general counsel at Mongiovi & Son, brings renewed expertise to the firm. His experience in complex litigation and in-house legal management adds significant depth to Babst Calland’s capabilities. This move…

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