In the 21st century, it’s all about the environment. Climate change, global warming and the green movement have been pushed to the forefront of both our political and personal conscience as the future of our natural world and our sustainability become increasingly pertinent issues.
In line with this increased environmental awareness, much climate change legislation has been enacted and the demand for environmental lawyers and the number of environmental law jobs is also on the rise. Many of the most successful lawyers are those who have established themselves as an expert in a particular area of law, and with this increased environmental law demand, environmental law is proving an increasingly popular, required and important law field. Are you interested in getting involved in environmental law and making it your area of expertise?
What is environmental law? Broadly speaking, environmental law regulates the interaction of humans with the biophysical or natural environment in order that human impact may be reduced. Environmental law is usually related to two main areas pollution control and remediation and resource conservation and management.
International environmental law. Because of the international nature of much environmental laws in the forms of multilateral and bilateral treaties between nation states environmental lawyers will often be involved and well versed in international law. Environmental law jobs, therefore, will suit lawyers after an area of law expertise that can be transferred and well utilised across national borders.
‘Green’ law firms and the increase in environmental law jobs. As climate change has moved from an uncertain scientific theory into a real global threat recognised the world over, the field of environmental law has expanded. There is an increased demand for those experienced in climate change legislation and with an understanding of the markets and regulations surrounding climate change and carbon trading or renewable energy. Law jobs at environmental firms are even demonstrating their commitment to their field by ‘greening’ the operations and running of their business.
With law firms, legislation and ordinary citizens responding to the threat of climate change and global warming, environmental law will continue to be an important niche area of law for years to come. Those looking to enter the legal work force or determine their area of expertise should consider environmental law for its pertinence, prominence and importance in contemporary 21st society.
Tags: bilateral treaties, change legislation, climate change, international environmental law, international nature, law environmental law, law expertise, national borders, personal conscience, pollution control