Our Story

Climate change and the debate about preserving the environment are hot topics fraught with tainted political lenses. The Environmental Law Centre (ELC) is a trusted resource for objective answers to help navigate Alberta’s complex scope of environmental law and policy.

At ELC, we understand the pressing need for strong environmental legislation and effective legal strategies to protect the environment for future generations. Whether you are an environmental policy analyst, lawyer or simply passionate about addressing environmental issues, we are here to empower you with the right information.

Since our establishment in 1982, we have advocated for robust environmental laws and regulations. Our mission is clear: to provide credible, comprehensive, and objective legal information on environmental law. By arming Albertans and Canadians with accurate information and fact-based legal perspectives, we can foster a society where clean water, clean air, and a healthy environment are accessible to all.

Our Vision

Our vision is a society where our laws secure an environment that sustains current and future generations and supports ecosystem health.

Our Mission

The Environmental Law Centre’s mission is to advocate for laws that will sustain ecosystems, ensure a healthy environment and engage citizens in the law’s creation and enforcement.

What We Do

Discover our latest in-depth reports and resources on environmental law, policy, and regulation. These publications offer actionable insights and innovative solutions to help you navigate and shape Canada’s environmental landscape federally and provincially.

Legal Research Services

The Environmental Law Centre provides environmental legal research and analysis to governments, committees, non-governmental organizations and corporations. We provide specialized help with researching specific legal options around environmental issues on a contract basis and through government grants.

Public Legal Education

We educate individuals on environmental law and policy intricacies through workshops, webinars, and educational materials. Whether you have questions about environmental rights, species at risk, or the impacts of resource extraction, there are valuable resources to provide clarity and guidance.

Empowering Action through Partnerships

We partner with other like-minded organizations to advance environmental law reform.

Policy Engagement

We interact with policymakers at all levels of government to shape environmentally sound policies and regulations by promoting innovative legislation and enabling public participation in decision-making processes.

Our Values

Credibility
ELC is dedicated to being a trusted, authoritative voice in environmental law and is known for objectivity, integrity, and factual analysis.
Sustainability & Resilience We value sustainability within our organization, ensuring we can adapt to challenges and continue our long-term mission.
Nimbleness & Responsiveness ELC remains agile and quick to respond to emerging environmental issues, ensuring that we stay relevant and effective in our work.

Learning, Respect & Professionalism
We are committed to learning as the foundation for providing up-to-date information. The ELC strives for a professional, respectful environment where staff can grow, collaborate, and excel, driving our collective success.

Support Stronger Environmental Legislation

We provide objective information and respected advice on changing environmental legislation and regulations; we are one of the only charities in Alberta that provide this to Albertans.