The ancient Roman doctrine guiding modern environmental fights
Summary
This episode examines the legal battle over Line 5, an aging oil pipeline threatening the Great Lakes, following a Michigan Supreme Court ruling that voided a key permit. Reporter Vivian Law details the conflict between Enbridge’s proposed tunnel project and opponents, including Native American tribes. Legal expert Oday Salim explains how the ancient "public trust doctrine" is increasingly used in courts to protect water resources from industrial harm.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Brooklyn Solar Works, Odoo, and Bayer
Introduction to Enbridge Line 5 and recent court rulings
The tunnel project vs. shutting down Line 5
Coalitions, tribal rights, and permit status
Introduction to the public trust doctrine
Historical origins and core principles of the doctrine
Applying the doctrine to the Line 5 case
Public trust doctrine usage across all 50 states
Why the doctrine is gaining traction now
Public connection to water and environmental protection
Credits and listener review
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