USTR Requests Comment on Environmental Implications of TTIP and Services Pact

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is asking for public comments on the environmental impacts of the proposed Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (here) and Trade in Services Agreement (here) currently under negotiation. The agency, through its Trade Policy Staff Committee, is conducting environmental reviews of both potential agreements. Comments in response to both requests must be submitted by Sept. 2. The committee is asking for comments on the positive or negative environmental effects that may result from successful conclusion of each agreement, potential implications for U.S. environmental laws and regulations, and insight into best practices related to review methodology. The comments are intended to be one of many tools used to gauge the potential environmental impacts of the agreements, said USTR.