Gradient scientists help clients plan for and address climate change impacts. Our experts evaluate potential challenges, including water resource issues, air and water quality impacts, and human health and ecological risks, as well as communicate with stakeholders. Our key skills include:
Water Rights Evaluation
Gradient provided expert evaluation and testimony in a water rights case filed in the Supreme Court of the United States. We used hydrological modeling and data analysis to assess historical changes in water use, groundwater conditions, and stream flows, including whether historical changes to climate had impacted the hydrologic cycle.
Risk Assessment of Refrigerants with Reduced Global Warming Potential
Gradient assessed the utility and risks of using refrigerants with low global warming potential in retail store and commercial kitchen applications. We determined potential exposure risks and evaluated potential chemical leakage and dispersion using simulations and chemical testing.
Regulatory Evaluation of the Federal Clean Power Plan
Gradient reviewed the approach used to calculate health co-benefits when assessing impacts of the federal Clean Power Plan. We evaluated the scientific validity of the models, data sources, and assumptions underlying the calculations, as well as the role of the co-benefits estimates in the program cost-benefit analysis.
Seawater Intrusion into an Irrigation Well
Gradient evaluated the potential for saltwater intrusion into an irrigation well on Cape Cod, MA, using site-specific groundwater data, well-specific pumping information, and theoretical calculations.
Risks Associated with Hybrid Vehicle Batteries
Gradient reviewed a document describing the potential hazards associated with electric vehicle battery components (and their potential breakdown products), focusing on relevant health effects data and regulatory exposure limits.
