We use law and the rule of law as a lever for environmental protection and human rights.
Together, we work to strengthen environmental law and raise awareness of the essential role of civil society in a democratic society.
Our goal is to protect the natural foundations of life and to effectively uphold and enforce human rights linked to them.
GLI founder and board member Dr. Roda Verheyen is being honored with the 2026 German Environmental Award for her outstanding commitment to environmental and climate protection.
Environmental law is the foundation for protecting our natural environment and securing a future. We support civil society in understanding the law and using it to advance the public good.
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We make environmental law enforceable. Environmental laws can only achieve their intended impact if compliance is monitored and implementation is effectively enforced. That is why we strengthen access to environmental information, public participation, and justice. We advocate for the consistent implementation of the Aarhus Convention in Germany.
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We support civil society around the world in taking legal action against environmental destruction and human rights violations linked to German actors, both in Germany and at the EU level. In this way, we help make the law a tool for greater justice across borders.
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A vibrant democracy depends on a strong civil society. We support environmental activists with legal expertise, contribute to debates on the environmental movement, and highlight environmental activism as an important democratic contribution
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We monitor whether the obligations under German and European climate laws are being met—and support other NGOs in taking legal action to prevent the targets from being watered down.
We offer a free consultation service for legal questions related to the environment and provide basic information on current environmental law topics. This enables everyone to advocate for the implementation of environmental laws.
In the face of an escalating climate and biodiversity crisis, an active and vocal civil society is more important than ever. In their political work, activists regularly come into contact with the (rule of) law. Our webinars and workshops prepare them for this and thus help protect active members of civil society from repression.
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.