Environmental law sits at the intersection of law, policy, and global environmental challenges. But what does this broad field actually cover?

To answer this question, Professor Randall Abate explores the foundations of environmental law and its key areas, including climate change law, natural resources law, and the emerging rights of nature movement. The conversation in this podcast episode looks at how traditional environmental regulation, long focused on pollution control, is evolving as legal systems respond to climate change and its impacts.

We also discuss the legal principles that shape environmental governance, such as the precautionary principle, polluter pays, and intergenerational equity. Finally, the episode turns to questions of legal standing: who can speak for nature and future generations in court? Through examples like youth climate litigation and guardianship models, Professor Abate highlights some of the legal strategies being used to protect the environment today.

If you are interested in hearing more, listen to the episode now and do not forget to share it with friends.