NEDC enforces environmental laws to hold regulators and companies accountable and to preserve and protect the natural environment of the Pacific Northwest.

NEDC envisions a future in which the Pacific Northwest leads the nation in developing, implementing, and enforcing strong laws and regulations that protect the environment and human health, and where our governments and communities value fostering and maintaining healthy and productive ecosystems. We prioritize diversity and inclusion, and recognize that environmental burdens and benefits are not distributed equitably.  NEDC is committed to expanding our work and partnerships with communities disproportionately impacted by environmental pollution. We work to address the historic and current disparities these communities face so that each of us can realize and enjoy a healthy and inspiring world.

History

In 1969, law professors, law students, and alumni of Lewis and Clark Law School founded NEDC as an all-volunteer non-profit organization. NEDC now includes members from throughout the region and a full-time staff and remains an independent 501(c)(3) organization that is neither a clinic nor a class. However, law students remain an integral part of the organization. NEDC empowers law students to tackle environmental advocacy projects, to fill leadership roles within the organization, and to launch public interest environmental careers.

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