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Environmental and Conservation Law

Environmental and conservation law is a specialised field focused on the regulations and policies designed to protect the environment and promote sustainable development. This area of law addresses a wide range of issues, including climate change, pollution control, conservation of natural resources, and the protection of biodiversity. Environmental lawyers play a critical role in shaping and enforcing laws that govern environmental practices, ensuring compliance with national and international regulations, and advocating for sustainable practices across industries.

e.g. London
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How do these lawyers work?

Environmental and conservation lawyers work with a variety of clients, including government agencies, non-profit organisations, corporations, and individuals. They provide legal advice on compliance with environmental regulations, help navigate permitting processes and represent clients in disputes related to environmental issues. Their work often involves engaging with regulatory bodies, and advocating for policy changes to enhance environmental protection.

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Who are their clients?

Clients in environmental and conservation law include government agencies, local authorities, non-profit organisations, corporations large and small, landowners and developers, indigenous communities

What do these lawyers do exactly?

Regulatory Compliance and Policy Development

Environmental Regulations: Advising clients on compliance with national and international environmental laws, including the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) and various EU directives. Permitting and Licensing: Assisting clients in obtaining the necessary permits for activities that may impact the environment, such as construction, mining, and waste disposal. Policy Advocacy: Engaging in advocacy efforts to influence environmental policy and legislation at local, national, and international levels.

Climate Change Law

Emission Reduction Strategies: Advising on compliance with laws aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy sources. Climate Change Litigation: Representing clients in lawsuits related to climate change impacts, including claims for damages or regulatory enforcement actions. Sustainable Development: Assisting clients in implementing sustainable practices and initiatives that align with climate action goals and environmental standards.

Conservation Efforts

Wildlife Protection: Advising on compliance with laws related to endangered species protection, habitat conservation, and biodiversity preservation. Land Use Planning: Working with developers and landowners to ensure that land use practices comply with conservation laws and contribute to sustainable land management. Ecosystem Restoration: Providing legal support for projects aimed at restoring degraded ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and coastal areas.

Pollution Control and Remediation

Pollution Prevention: Advising businesses on strategies to minimise environmental impact and comply with pollution control regulations. Environmental Assessments: Conducting assessments to evaluate the potential environmental impact of proposed projects and developments. Remediation Projects: Assisting clients in managing cleanup efforts for contaminated sites, ensuring compliance with environmental standards and regulations.

Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Environmental Litigation: Representing clients in cases involving environmental violations, including citizen suits and regulatory enforcement actions. Alternative Dispute Resolution: Engaging in mediation or arbitration to resolve disputes related to environmental issues without resorting to litigation. Public Interest Litigation: Advocating for the enforcement of environmental laws on behalf of affected communities or the public.

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Where can you do this type of work?

Environmental and conservation law is practiced in various settings, including law firms, local government and national government agencies, non-profits and charities, and corporations.

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Here are some of the legal players in this field:

Examples of firms in this area listed in the Legal 500 and/or Chambers & Partners rankings include:

Other firms and organisations who have not submitted themselves for review in the Legal 500 and/or Chambers & Partners rankings are also available in this area of law.