Southern Environmental Law Center

Water: goals - to protect and restore water quality and water flow to ensure surface and ground waters in our region can meet long-term human and ecological needs. In pursuit of these goals, selc litigates cases to protect drinking water and waterways from pollution and to enforce existing laws and regulations.

Land and community: goals - to promote vibrant communities, protect natural/rural areas, reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions/pollutants through smarter growth/sustainable transportation systems. Selc litigates cases benefiting citizens by enforcing existing laws.

Wetlands and coasts: goals - to protect and preserve the wetlands and high priority coastal ecosystems in the south for the benefit of wildlife, marine life, and people. In pursuit of these goals, selc litigates cases to protect wetlands, wildlife, and marine life, safeguard communities from flooding, and enforce existing laws and regulations.

National forests and parks: goals - to ensure that southern appalachian national forests are managed primarily for fish and wildlife, clean water, recreation, scenic beauty, and to protect the integrity of the great smoky mountains, shenandoah, and other national park units. Selc litigates cases to protect these forests and parks, public resources therein, and enforce existing laws.

Air: goals - to achieve high air quality across the region, with specific focus on heavily industrialized communities. In pursuit of these goals, selc litigates cases to reduce harmful air pollution and enforce existing public health protections and to enforce existing laws and regulations.

Wildlife: goals - to protect and preserve the south's rich biodiversity and habitats. Selc litigates cases to protect and preserve the region's rich biodiversity and wildlife habitat and to enforce existing laws and regulations.

Environmental justice: goals - to partner with historically disadvantaged communities to ensure that all communities in our region have clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment. Selc's program areas incorporate considerations of environmental justice through the organization's work. Selc achieves these goals through established program areas, including by litigating cases to enforce existing laws and regulations. Environmental justice efforts are embedded across various program areas and support the organization's overarching mission.

Climate: goals to ensure protection of a livable climate for people and ecosystems in the south. Selc incorporates climate considerations, including mitigation and adaptation, into its various program areas. Selc litigates cases to protect the south from the effects of climate change when appropriate.