United States: Energy and Natural Resources

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and U.S. Department of the Interior's Marine Minerals Administration have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to clarify their respective jurisdictions over civilian nuclear energy projects on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS).

On July 21, the California Air Resources Board (“CARB”) held a public workshop to provide updates on the implementation of SB 253, the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, which requires U.S.-based entities doing business in California with more than $1 billion in annual revenue to disclose their Scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions. During the workshop, CARB introduced a revised reporting deadline, a phased-in approach to Scope 3 reporting, changes to the treatment of insurance companies, and proposed assurance requirements that would apply from 2027 and beyond.

As global demand for critical minerals accelerates, the midstream – the processing and refining of raw materials into usable industrial inputs – is increasingly viewed as a strategically important section of the metals value chain and key to industrial sovereignty. However, despite the strong demand narrative, midstream projects in the UK and Europe face significant challenges.

The US Geological Survey has identified up to 2.3 million metric tons of economically recoverable lithium in the Appalachian region, potentially meeting US import needs for over three centuries. As global lithium demand is projected to quintuple by 2040, both the Biden and Trump administrations have deployed executive orders, federal funding, and interagency coordination to accelerate domestic lithium production and reduce dependence on foreign imports. State governments from Mississippi to California are a

As global demand for critical minerals accelerates, the midstream – the processing and refining of raw materials into usable industrial inputs – is increasingly viewed as a strategically important section of the metals value chain and key to industrial sovereignty. However, despite the strong demand narrative, midstream projects in the UK and Europe face significant challenges.

An executive order significantly reduces the boundaries of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, removing federal protections from certain lands. Within 60 days, these lands will become available for mineral leasing, geothermal development, and mining operations under applicable federal law.

Louisiana's real estate market is experiencing unprecedented growth driven by artificial intelligence infrastructure, petrochemical expansion, and major manufacturing investments. From multi-billion dollar data centers to LNG export terminals and urban redevelopment projects, the state is attracting over $100 billion in capital investment while navigating insurance reforms and evolving energy policy.

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and U.S. Department of the Interior's Marine Minerals Administration have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to clarify their respective jurisdictions over civilian nuclear energy projects on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS).

On July 21, the California Air Resources Board (“CARB”) held a public workshop to provide updates on the implementation of SB 253, the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, which requires U.S.-based entities doing business in California with more than $1 billion in annual revenue to disclose their Scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions. During the workshop, CARB introduced a revised reporting deadline, a phased-in approach to Scope 3 reporting, changes to the treatment of insurance companies, and proposed assurance requirements that would apply from 2027 and beyond.

Catalysts used in industrial applications face rigorous EPA review under TSCA, even at minute quantities, with Low Volume Exemptions requiring proof that substances "will not present" unreasonable risk. Despite advantages over premanufacture notices, poorly supported LVE submissions can delay commercialization by months, making strategic preparation essential for timely approval.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has published the Developments in Delegations on the Safety of Manufactured Nanomaterials and Advanced Materials — Tour de Table: July 2024 — June 2025...

The Sustainable PFAS Action Network has launched a new Refrigerant Working Group to navigate the complex intersection of PFAS policy and climate commitments. As state and federal regulators grapple with broad PFAS classifications, this initiative aims to establish science-based approaches that recognize refrigerants as essential for meeting global climate goals while addressing environmental concerns.