We use law and the rule of law as levers for environmental protection and human rights. We help to enforce the observance of planetary boundaries and human rights.
We empower civil society actors in Germany and worldwide to understand, apply, and improve the law in this sense. We convince politicians and the public of the need for strong environmental law and a strong civil society.
The federal government has the chance to strengthen the rights of environmental organizations to bring legal action and to expedite proceedings—for the effective implementation of environmental law.
We provide training, coordinate strategic action by environmental organizations, and convince politicians and the public. By doing so, we promote respect and appreciation for our fellow humans and for nature.
To fulfill our mission, we are active in four main areas:
We advocate for environmental law that respects planetary boundaries—law that is understandable, effective, and fair. GLI turns law into a tool for a livable future for all.
We ensure that environmental law is enforceable – through open legal avenues, strong participation, and strategic litigation. This enables the courts to help shape change. Through GLI, the Aarhus Convention has a strong advocate in Germany.
We empower civil society worldwide to take legal action against the destruction of the environment and human rights violations by German actors – in Germany and the EU. This turns the law into a tool for justice across borders.
We defend fundamental rights against repression: by helping to shape legal debates concerning the environmental movement, we ensure that environmental activism is seen as a democratic contribution that is legitimate and defensible.
The law can be quite complex. That’s why we offer free consultations on environmental legal issues six times a month.
The Green Legal Lab is a practical training program lasting several weeks that pairs young professionals with experienced environmental lawyers and representatives from environmental organizations.
In the face of the escalating climate and biodiversity crisis, an active and vocal civil society is more important than ever. Nevertheless, environmental activists in many European countries are coming under increasing pressure: through police violence, criminalization, threats, abusive legal proceedings, or disinformation campaigns. Young people who peacefully campaign for climate and environmental protection are particularly affected. Working with partner organizations from several EU countries, we are trying to counter these developments through two EU-funded projects.
Are you convinced that the law plays an important role in environmental protection and climate justice? Become a supporter of Green Legal Impact.
There are many ways to support us. Whether as a donor or a member of our organization, by joining us you can help protect the environment and climate.