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Environmental Law Foundation

@elflaw.bsky.social
217 followers 88 following 120 posts

The Environmental Law Foundation is the national UK charity that helps people use the law to protect and improve their local environment and quality of life.

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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
Rights on paper are important. But they only mean something if people can understand them, access advice and use them in practice.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
This matters for environmental justice too. Communities facing decisions that could affect their health, homes and local environment may have to navigate complex law, technical evidence and strict deadlines.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
And geography is only part of the problem. The Legal Services Board’s survey of 17,688 people found that 32% of those experiencing a legal need had an unmet need. People on lower household incomes and those living in the most deprived areas were more likely to experience an unmet legal need.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
Some 69% of people have no community care legal aid provider in their local area, rising to 88% for education and 82% for welfare benefits. For housing, 41% of the population lives in a local authority area without a legal aid provider.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
Justice shouldn’t depend on your postcode. But for millions of people, access to legal help increasingly does. The Law Society’s latest mapping of England and Wales shows the scale of what it calls “legal aid deserts”.
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Reposted by Environmental Law Foundation
Legal Action Group @legalactiongroup.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
In this month’s #LegalAction, Emma Montlake of @elflaw.bsky.social outlines 𝘙 (𝘍𝘰𝘰𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘓𝘵𝘥 (𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘎𝘭𝘰𝘣𝘢𝘭 𝘍𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘓𝘵𝘥)) 𝘷 𝘏𝘔 𝘛𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘉𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘦, currently before the Supreme Court. 🌍 Read here ➡️ hi.switchy.io/yYeR #EnvironmentalLaw #ClimateJustice
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 01/07/2026
The UK’s next Prime Minister has a crucial opportunity to reset our relationship with nature. If you believe nature deserves to be at the heart of government decision-making, please sign and share the petition here: www.change.org/p/a-nature-r...
change.org
Sign the Petition
A nature reset for Government: Four urgent asks
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 30/06/2026
Find out more about becoming a professional member on our website. Or get in touch: info17@elflaw.org
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 30/06/2026
If you have expertise in environmental law, planning law, public law, environmental permitting and regulation, town planning, or another relevant legal or technical discipline, and would like to use your skills to support communities across the UK, we'd love to hear from you!
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 30/06/2026
Together, they're helping protect rivers, challenge pollution, safeguard green spaces and hold decision-makers to account. As demand for our services grows, we're looking to welcome more professionals into our network.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 30/06/2026
Our Professional Pro Bono Membership Network is at the heart of everything we do Each year, more than 150 barristers, solicitors and technical experts across the UK volunteer through ELF, providing up to £1 million of free legal and technical support to communities facing environmental challenges.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 14/05/2026
Thank you! Because of your support, the Supreme Court will hear the real-world impacts sewage pollution has on communities, rivers, and wildlife across the UK. #ProtectOurRivers #EnvironmentalJustice #SewagePollution #UKSupremeCourt
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 11/05/2026
That’s why ELF is intervening: to ensure the Court hears the real-world impacts on communities and the environment. But we need your support. 👉 Donate today: www.crowdjustice.com/case/help-de...
crowdjustice.com
Help Defend Our Rivers in the Supreme Court
The Environmental Law Foundation (ELF) is raising funds to intervene in a crucial UK Supreme Court case that could affect whether water companies can be held legally accountable for sewage pollution.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 11/05/2026
Just 2 days left to support ELF’s intervention in a crucial Supreme Court case on sewage pollution. This case could shape how sewage pollution is challenged across the UK for years to come.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 05/05/2026
ELF is intervening in the case to ensure the wider public interest and voices of affected communities are heard. Help us make sure communities and rivers are not left without protection. 👉 Support ELF’s intervention: www.crowdjustice.com/case/help-de...
crowdjustice.com
Help Defend Our Rivers in the Supreme Court
The Environmental Law Foundation (ELF) is raising funds to intervene in a crucial UK Supreme Court case that could affect whether water companies can be held legally accountable for sewage pollution.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 05/05/2026
In 2023, the Environment Agency found that sewage was discharged into England’s rivers 1,200 times a day. What kind of future does that create for our communities and waterways? A new Supreme Court case could shape how water companies are held accountable for that pollution..
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 22/04/2026
ELF is stepping in to stop that from happening, but we need your help. Your donation will help fund the research, time and legal support needed for ELF to intervene. Back the case: www.crowdjustice.com/case/help-de... #RiverProtection #EnvironmentalLaw #UKSupremeCourt
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 22/04/2026
This Supreme Court case could shape how water companies are held accountable for sewage pollution across the UK. If the Court sides with the water companies, it could: • Limit legal accountability • Reduce protections for rivers • Make it harder for communities to act
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 15/04/2026
ELF has been asked to intervene in a landmark Supreme Court case, to bring the voices of affected communities into the Court. But we need your support to do it. 👉 Donate today to help fuel our case and defend our rivers: www.crowdjustice.com/case/help-de...
crowdjustice.com
Help Defend Our Rivers in the Supreme Court
The Environmental Law Foundation (ELF) is raising funds to intervene in a crucial UK Supreme Court case that could affect whether water companies can be held legally accountable for sewage pollution.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 15/04/2026
A new UK Supreme Court case could weaken one of the most important ways communities can legally challenge sewage pollution. Last year, a landmark ruling confirmed that illegal wastewater discharges can be challenged through civil claims. Now, that progress is at risk.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 09/04/2026
Their work is a powerful reminder that environmental protections only matter if they are properly upheld and enforced — and that communities and NGOs play a crucial role in holding decision-makers to account. 📖 Read the full story: elflaw.org/news/communi...
elflaw.org
Community Spotlight: Sussex Wildlife Trust - Environmental Law Foundation
Sussex Wildlife Trust (SWT) approached the Environmental Law Foundation (ELF) over serious concerns about a licence allowing dredged material from Brighton Marina to be dumped at the Beachy Head West Marine Conservation Zone —an area recognised for its ecological importance. Although dredging had taken place there for decades, the site was designated in 2013 as  aMarine Conservation Zone and also falls within a Site of Special Scientific Interest, […]
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 09/04/2026
🌊 Our latest spotlight highlights the work of Sussex Wildlife Trust, who have been at the forefront of challenging decisions that put vital ecosystems at risk — including action to protect the Beachy Head West Marine Conservation Zone, a site home to rare and protected species.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 05/02/2026
We’re starting with the community of Ceibwr Bay, Pembrokeshire, whose determined campaigning, supported by ELF, helped challenge a planning decision that threatened wildlife and a protected coastline. Read about how ELF's work helped the community: elflaw.org/news/communi...
elflaw.org
Community Spotlight: Ceibwr Bay Community - Environmental Law Foundation
1) Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your community (and the place you’re working to protect)?  We are members of the local community in Pembrokeshire who came together to protect Ceibwr Bay, a...
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 05/02/2026
Our Community Spotlight shines a light on the people behind the cases: their places, their persistence, and the collective power of communities taking action for environmental justice.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 05/02/2026
🌿 Introducing: ELF Community Spotlight We’re launching a new series to share the stories of communities who have stood up to protect their local environment — often in the face of being ignored, dismissed or overwhelmed.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 08/01/2026
We’re excited for this new chapter and all the ways Robin’s leadership will help us grow our impact, deepen our partnerships, and expand access to environmental justice for all. 📖 Read more about Robin and her appointment: elflaw.org/news/robin-p...
elflaw.org
Robin Pierro appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Law Foundation - Environmental Law Foundation
The Environmental Law Foundation (ELF) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Robin Pierro as its new Chief Executive Officer. Robin brings over 15 years of leadership experience across the human ...
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 08/01/2026
💬 “I’m honoured to be joining an organisation with such a powerful legacy,” Robin shared. “At a time when environmental pressures are intensifying and protections are weakening, ELF’s work is vital.”
elflaw.org
Robin Pierro appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Law Foundation - Environmental Law Foundation
The Environmental Law Foundation (ELF) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Robin Pierro as its new Chief Executive Officer. Robin brings over 15 years of leadership experience across the human ...
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 08/01/2026
She joins ELF at a critical moment, as communities across the UK face mounting environmental pressures and demand for legal support continues to grow.
elflaw.org
Robin Pierro appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Law Foundation - Environmental Law Foundation
The Environmental Law Foundation (ELF) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Robin Pierro as its new Chief Executive Officer. Robin brings over 15 years of leadership experience across the human ...
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 08/01/2026
Robin brings over 15 years of leadership across the human rights and environmental justice sectors with a proven track record in strategy, communications, and systems change.
elflaw.org
Robin Pierro appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Law Foundation - Environmental Law Foundation
The Environmental Law Foundation (ELF) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Robin Pierro as its new Chief Executive Officer. Robin brings over 15 years of leadership experience across the human ...
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 08/01/2026
📢 We’re delighted to welcome our new CEO, Robin Pierro! 🌿 The Environmental Law Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of Robin Pierro as our new Chief Executive Officer.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 27/11/2025
Are you concerned about or working with trees, woodlands and forests? Are you interested in testing a new Rights of Nature toolkit? There are a few spaces left at our joint event at the University of Sussex on 3rd December from 2pm to 5pm. If you would like to attend please contact tom@elflaw.org
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 17/11/2025
🌿 Join us on 11 December for Intervening for the Environment! 📅 Thursday 11 December 2025 📍 London + Online 🎟️ Register here: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/intervenin... This is a space to learn, connect and empower the growing movement for environmental justice. Let’s intervene where it matters. 🌍✨
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 11/11/2025
🌊 Missed our Rights of Rivers webinar? Catch up now! Our recent session with Matrix Chambers explored how local councils can take practical steps to support the Rights of Nature movement – with a special focus on rivers. 🌿 ▶️ Watch now: vimeo.com/1134637522/a... #RightsOfNature #RiverRights
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 07/11/2025
Helen Hamilton shares how she worked to overturn planning permission for a factory farm threatening ancient woodland in Wales — showing how pro bono action can hold decision-makers accountable and protect irreplaceable habitats. 💚 Join our pro bono network: elflaw.org/get-involved... #ProBonoWeek
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 06/11/2025
Senior Associate Sabah Siddiq, from Lester Aldridge, worked with ELF and the Woodland Trust to overturn planning permission for a poultry farm expansion that threatened ancient woodland in Wales. 💚 Stand up for nature with your legal skills. Join the ELF pro-bono network: elflaw.org/get-involved...
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 05/11/2025
Environmental barrister Jessica Allen reflects on her work on the Brighton Marina case, to defend the Beachy Head West Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) from harmful activities. 💚 Join our network of pro bono lawyers and make your skills count for the planet: elflaw.org/get-involved... #ProBonoWeek
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
Living beside the River Arun, Matthew Cripps witnessed wildlife disturbance caused by unregulated river use and worked with ELF and the University of Sussex Law Clinic to explore legal solutions and community protection tools. 💚 Join our pro-bono network: elflaw.org/get-involved...
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 03/11/2025
For Pro Bono Week 2025, we’re celebrating the inspiring people behind ELF’s network of environmental justice champions. Dr. Joanna Smallwood supported a community working to protect the River Arun. 💚 Learn more about how you can volunteer your legal skills: elflaw.org/get-involved... #ProBonoWeek
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 30/10/2025
💧 How can councils act for their rivers? Our new Rights of Rivers guide offers step-by-step advice for councils and communities to do the same. 📘 Explore the guide: 👉 www.hoganlovellsbase.com/_uploads/dow... #RightsofRivers #LocalCouncils #EnvironmentalJustice #NatureRights #Rivers
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 29/10/2025
“What if we saw rivers as kin rather than possessions?” Across the UK, communities are reframing their relationship with rivers — seeing them not as property, but as living systems with the right to flow, to regenerate, and to thrive. 📘 www.hoganlovellsbase.com/_uploads/dow... #RightsofRivers
hoganlovellsbase.com
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 28/10/2025
2024 saw some of the lowest butterfly numbers since UK records began. ELF has signed the Bristol Declaration to shape the Big Insect Rescue Plan — an evidence-based roadmap for recovery. 🌼 Add your voice today: butterfly-conservation.org/big-insect-r... #BigInsectRescuePlan #BristolDeclaration
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 24/10/2025
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us yesterday at the 'Symposium for the practical application of the River Ouse Charter' held at Marine Workshops, Newhaven. We're extremely grateful to be work collaboratively and with shared responsibly to help our waterways to live, thrive and evolve.
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 21/10/2025
Insects across the UK are in crisis — and the numbers are alarming. Together, we can build the Big Insect Rescue Plan — informed by public voices, science, and community action. 👉 Have your say: butterfly-conservation.org/big-insect-r... #BristolDeclaration #BigInsectRescuePlan #TogetherForInsects
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 02/10/2025
🌊 WEBINAR: Rights of Rivers – How Councils Can Take Action Friday 7 November 2025 | 12:30–13:30 | Zoom 📅 Register now: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regi...
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 29/09/2025
“I am the river and the river is me.” With rights for rivers come our responsibilities — to restore, protect and let them thrive. 💧🌱 Read the full blog by ELF Co-Director Emma Montlake #RightsOfNature #RiverRights #NatureRights #EnvironmentalJustice elflaw.org/news/from-su...
elflaw.org
From Sussex to beyond: How river rights are flowing into the mainstream - Environmental Law Foundation
by Emma Montlake, ELF Co-Director   Is it just me or is everyone talking about River and Nature Rights? I certainly seem to be talking about it a lot, and every time I turn on the radio Robert MacFarl...
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 29/09/2025
🌊From Sussex to councils across England, river rights are no longer niche — they’re flowing into the mainstream. Just two years after Lewes District Council’s historic motion on the River Ouse, more than a dozen councils have followed, exploring charters, personhood and rights for their rivers.
elflaw.org
From Sussex to beyond: How river rights are flowing into the mainstream - Environmental Law Foundation
by Emma Montlake, ELF Co-Director   Is it just me or is everyone talking about River and Nature Rights? I certainly seem to be talking about it a lot, and every time I turn on the radio Robert MacFarl...
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 19/09/2025
🌊Do rivers and whales really have rights? ELF Co-Director Emma Montlake shares insights in this thought-provoking Financial Times, exploring what it truly means to give nature a voice in law. Read more: www.ft.com/content/d8ed... #RightsofNature #EnvironmentalJustice #RiverRights #LegalPersonhood
ft.com
Do rivers and whales have legal rights?
Campaigners for giving ‘legal personhood’ to the natural world sense they are winning the argument
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 19/09/2025
Read how local communities and legal experts are pushing boundaries and challenging how we relate to nature — one river at a time. 📖 Read the full article: issuu.com/rsgspubs/doc... #RightsofNature #RiverRights #EnvironmentalJustice #LoveOurOuse #LegalPersonhood #EnvironmentalLaw #RightsOfRivers
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 19/09/2025
We’re proud to be supporting this conversation here in the UK. As ELF Co- Director Emma Montlake writes in The Geographer, “there is a bubbling grassroots movement in the UK for rights of rivers.”
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Environmental Law Foundation @elflaw.bsky.social · 19/09/2025
🌊 Does a river have rights? From the River Ouse in Sussex to the Ganges in India and the Whanganui in New Zealand, a global movement is growing to recognise rivers as legal persons – with rights to flow, thrive, and be protected.
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