By Carolyn Clark, JD'22

“The World of Waste in a Wasteful World:” a wonderful concept for Vermont Journal of Environmental Law’s annual symposium. Every year, the topics differ, but are always environmentally focused. This year, the Journal decided to focus on a topic that has become more evident since the beginning of the pandemic—waste.

This was the second year that the symposium was held virtually. Due to the ongoing pandemic, the Journal decided this was the best, safest choice for our panelists and our audience. The symposium revolved around four main panels: waste disposal as intended; policy management and litigation; ocean and water pollution; and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (also known as CERCLA or Superfund). The panelists provided a wide range of experiences about the world of waste. Our keynote speaker, materials management section chief at the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation Josh Kelly, was able to perfectly tie all the main themes to Vermont.

Waste is an important environmental topic, now more than ever. The world is ever-changing between climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and other elements. It is crucial that people pay attention to waste and learn how to help prevent the world from becoming even more wasteful.

The Journal staff extends their thanks to everyone from our keynote speaker, to the panelists, to the moderators, to the audience. Additionally, the Journal gives thanks and appreciation to everyone who helped prepare for the event. We could not have done this without you! Lastly, as a reminder to all, the Journal encourages you to be more conscious of waste in this wasteful world!