ACOEL is an invitation-only association of distinguished lawyers dedicated to maintaining and improving the ethical practice of environmental law through rigorous focus, outreach and education.
ACOEL fellows value collegiality, balanced and objective perspective, integrity and rigor in expertise. Our diverse practices, viewpoints and backgrounds help us understand how environmental laws can advance common goals.
Exciting things are happening at ACOEL!
Fellows, learn more about our events!
News from ACOEL
ACOEL Announces Newly Elected 2026-27 Officers and Regents
The American College of Environmental Lawyers (ACOEL or College) is proud to announce its newly elected Officers and Regents. The College is a professional association of distinguished lawyers who practice in the field of environmental law. Membership is by invitation and members are recognized by their peers as preeminent in their field. ACOEL Fellows are dedicated to: maintaining and improving the ethical practice of environmental law; the administration of justice; and the development of environmental law at both the state and federal level. The new Officers’ and Regents’ terms began on September 25, 2026, at the College’s Annual Meeting held in Chicago, IL.
Recent Insights from our Fellows
Nearing the End of the Line for State and Local Climate Litigation?
by Seth D. Jaffe
Late last month, Chief Judge Brenda Sannes, of the Northern District of New York, ruled that New York State’s “climate superfund” law is preempted by federal law. Relying on the 2nd Circuit opinion from 2021 in City of New York v. Chevron Corp., Chief Judge Sannes found in West Virginia v. James that the Clean […] 
Bombs on the Beach: Dept. of the Air Force v. Prutehi Guahan
by Clifford Villa
The People’s Parks
by Krista McIntyre
Climate at the Supreme Court: Suncor v. Boulder
by Janet McCabe
ACOEL Topic Focus
There has been a lot of discussion on artificial intelligence, data centers, and the environment in the news recently. Read about what ACOEL Fellows have been focusing on and discussing.
Artificial Intelligence & Data Centers
Are State Legislatures Artificially Intelligent or Humanly Thinking?
by Kathy G. Beckett
The Clean Power Plan—And Around We Go
by F. William William Brownell
