United for Earth’s Legal Future
Rooted in decades of legal scholarship and driven by urgent ecological necessity, the Consortium for Ecological Law (CEL) is a New York-based nonprofit organization operating at the intersection of international governance, climate policy, and grassroots advocacy. We exist to protect the biosphere and secure climate justice for present and future generations.
About the Consortium
The Consortium for Ecological Law is a group of pioneers in the environmental, oceans, and energy fields dedicated to advancing policies and legal tools that restore and sustain the biosphere. Founded in New York City in 2023 and registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Consortium for Ecological Law serves as a think-tank and global facilitator for the development and implementation of Earth-centered law. We are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between international legal developments and on-the-ground action by communities, governments, and grassroots organizations worldwide.
Our work combines rigorous research, innovative policy development, strategic collaboration with UN bodies and governmental and non-governmental institutions, and broad stakeholder engagement to transform emerging ecological law principles into meaningful environmental action.
Founded in New York City in 2023 and registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Consortium for Ecological Law serves as a think-tank and global facilitator for the development and implementation of Earth-centered law.
We are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between international legal developments and on-the-ground action by communities, governments, and grassroots organizations worldwide.
Our work is carried out through rigorous research, the preparation of policy proposals, the sharing of knowledge about ecological law principles, active cooperation with UN bodies and government and non-governmental entities, and meaningful engagement with stakeholders committed to impactful ecological action.
Founded to Redefine Law for the Earth
Our foundation was shaped by the collective expertise of pioneers who have been at the forefront of modern environmental law since its inception in the 1970s. Our board members’ combined experience spans international ocean governance, energy law, climate policy, and rights-based legal advocacy across every region of the world.
Decades ago, our founders helped build traditional environmental laws. Today, we recognize that managing “permissible damage” to natural resources is no longer enough. CEL was established to lead the vital evolutionary shift away from human-centered frameworks toward the recognition and development of Earth-centered laws and policies at the international, regional, and local levels—fully protecting the intrinsic rights of all living systems
The Consortium for Ecological Law was established in 2023 to lead the transition from human-centered environmental, natural resources, and energy laws toward the recognition and further development of Earth-centered laws and policies at the international, regional, and local levels.
Make Peace with Nature
Professor Nicholas A. Robinson
President and Chairman, Consortium for Ecological Law
How the Consortium for Ecological Law Drives Change
Research and Policy Development
The Consortium for Ecological Law conducts and commissions legal research, prepares policy proposals, and develops practical frameworks that translate ecological law principles into actionable governance tools. This research is shared with governments, international bodies, academic institutions, and civil society organizations.
International Advocacy and Engagement
The Consortium for Ecological Law engages directly with international forums including the United Nations Environment Programme, the UN General Assembly, the International Court of Justice, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the Climate Change and Biodiversity Convention’s Conference of the Parties — ensuring that ecological law perspectives shape the most consequential global environmental policy decisions.
Knowledge Sharing and Education
Through events, publications, newsletters, and partnerships with leading universities, the Consortium for Ecological Law raises awareness of ecological law principles and practical tools — with particular focus on empowering youth leaders, legal practitioners, and grassroots organizations.
Grassroots Partnership and Implementation
The Consortium for Ecological Law supports grassroots partnerships — particularly those involving Indigenous Peoples and youth leaders — helping translate global legal frameworks into local action and ensuring that the most affected communities have both a voice and a pathway to legal recourse.
WHAT WE STAND FOR
Transparency
The Consortium for Ecological Law is committed to operating openly and honestly in all its activities. Financial records, legal registrations, and organizational decisions are made available to the public.
Credibility
The advocacy of the Consortium for Ecological Law is grounded in rigorous legal scholarship, authoritative academic partnerships, and a deep respect for the integrity of legal processes.
Accountability
The Consortium for Ecological Law holds itself to the same standard of accountability it advocates for in law – to the Earth, to present and future generations, and to the communities most affected by ecological and climate disruption.
Inclusivity
Indigenous Peoples, youth leaders, Global South communities, and frontline advocates are central to the work of the Consortium for Ecological Law – not peripheral to it. The Consortium for Ecological Law is committed to facilitating genuinely inclusive processes.
Sustainability
The Consortium for Ecological Law is committed to long-term sustainability in its operations, its partnerships, and its financial stewardship – building an institution capable of driving ecological law reform for generations to come.
Respect for Biodiversity
Every element of the Consortium for Ecological Law’s work is guided by a deep respect for the full diversity of life and the legal frameworks needed to protect it.
Community Engagement
The Consortium for Ecological Law is committed to engaging meaningfully with communities around the world, listening to their experiences of ecological harm, and co-creating legal solutions that reflect their needs, values, and rights.
Support and Expansion of Environmental Law Education
The Consortium for Ecological Law is committed to supporting environmental law education at every level – from law school curricula and academic research to public outreach and practitioner training.
Team & Leadership
Grounded in Academic Excellence, Connected to Global Action
The Consortium for Ecological Law supports and collaborates with Pace University’s Global Center for Environmental Legal Studies and the Pace Energy and Climate Center — two of the most respected institutions in environmental legal education and research in the United States.
Pace University — Global Center for Environmental Legal Studies
Pace Energy and Climate Center
International Observer Status
- Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) - Observer Status Granted
- United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) - Observer Status Pending
- United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of the Parties (COP) – Application Pending
- United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) – Application Pending
NYS Registration and Tax-Exempt Information
FAQs
What is the Consortium for Ecological Law?
The Consortium for Ecological Law is a New York-based nonprofit founded in 2023 to advance the global transition from human-centered environmental law toward Earth-centered legal frameworks. We conduct research, develop policy proposals, engage with international bodies, and partner with grassroots organizations to advance Rights of Nature and climate justice worldwide.
Where is the Consortium for Ecological Law based?
The Consortium for Ecological Law is based in New York, with offices at 78 N. Broadway, Suite A100, White Plains, NY 10603, and a mailing address at P.O. Box 1964, New York NY 10163. Its proximity to the United Nations Headquarters is central to its engagement with international environmental governance.
Is the Consortium for Ecological Law a registered nonprofit?
Yes. The Consortium for Ecological Law is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, recognized as tax-exempt by the Internal Revenue Service and registered with the New York State Charities Bureau. All key legal and financial documents are publicly available on the About Us page.