The legacy of the Cold War and the decline of heavy industrial activity starting in the mid -1970’s has left behind numerous industrial and hazardous nuclear sites, while the recent shift towards sustainable energy demands the closure and repurposing of fossil fuel plants. This talk explores the innovative strategies and technologies employed in the remediation of these sites. We will delve into case studies of successful transformations, highlighting the environmental and economic benefits of repurposing these areas into new commercial and beneficial uses. Additionally, the talk will address the critical role of legal professionals in navigating the complex regulatory landscape, ensuring compliance, and advocating for sustainable practices. The talk will highlight the unique opportunities for alternate career pathways at the intersection of environmental law, land regulation and reuse, energy policy, and corporate social responsibility. Join us to discover how the intersection of science, engineering, and law can drive the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future while opening new professional avenues for the next generation of legal experts.
Mike Salmon is a Penn State Law alumnus and the Managing Partner at DECARB, LLC. During his seminar, he will discuss the recent shifts in sustainable energy demands and the closure and repurposing of fossil fuel plants. He will highlight case studies from DECARB, which specializes in developing and implementing strategies to transition existing power plants, impaired properties, and grid infrastructure to new energy technologies and other repurposing solutions. Thee company works to ensure measurable carbon reduction goals while maintaining grid resiliency.