Environmental Law Foundation

Description

The Environmental Law Foundation (ELF) is a UK charity that helps communities access legal support to protect and restore nature. It has worked since 1992 and prioritises socially and economically disadvantaged communities who would otherwise lack the resources to challenge environmental harm.

Communities contact ELF about issues such as sewage pollution, harmful development and the destruction of ecosystems. ELF connects them with free legal advice from a national network of more than 150 pro bono barristers, solicitors and technical experts, unlocking up to one million pounds of support each year. It also convenes a network of more than 20 UK university law schools that contribute to casework, research and training.

Beyond casework, ELF helps communities engage in consultations, negotiations and litigation with regulators, corporations and government. It uses insights from its cases to advocate for stronger environmental laws and improved access to justice, including support for the Aarhus Convention and Rights of Nature initiatives.