Tag Archives: “COVID-19”

Lies, Damn Lies, and Statistics: How the COVID-19 Crisis Highlights Our Misuse of Data

As I was reading the latest statistics regarding the spread of COVID-19, I became frustrated.  My frustration stemmed not just from the fact that we are unprepared despite repeated warnings, but also from the way our elected officials and their teams present (and the media reports) the data.  Having practiced environmental law for over thirty years and observed countless instances of data misuse and misinterpretation, I am not surprised, but I am disappointed.… More

MassDEP Issues Guidance on Performing Response Actions During COVID-19

Just a straightforward informational post.  MassDEP has issued a concise, helpful, guidance on performing response actions during COVID-19.  Here are the highlights:

  • All release notifications are still required within MCP deadlines.
  • MassDEP is still taking oral notice of Immediate Response Actions and issuing oral approvals.  It is still reviewing written IRA plans.  If MassDEP does not respond to a within plan 21 days,…
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If You Thought That COVID-19 Was Bad, Try It Mixed With Some PM2.5!

Last week, I discussed the Administration’s guidance concerning the exercise of its enforcement discretion during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now comes evidence that the guidance may actually be self-defeating.  While the administration is – understandably – trying to cut regulated industries some slack while they are trying to deal with COVID-19, it turns out that exposure to PM2.5 has a significant impact on the COVID-19 death rate.… More