“Changing Currents” expresses an awareness that the physical currents of our planet are shifting and that we must alter our human patterns to adapt for a better future. Actions of the past set in motion the drastic changes we are experiencing today. At the same time our actions today will deeply affect our world’s future. The currents that drive our climate system are changing and causing unprecedented changes to human and biotic communities across the globe. But, armed with an awareness of these changes, we can mobilize the social currency needed to change currents and set humanity on the path to resiliency. This year’s conference will provide an opportunity to challenge each other and discuss solutions and strategies for how we may move forward in confronting the world of today with an eye towards tomorrow’s reality.

The Public Interest Environmental Law Conference is the premier annual gathering for environmentalists worldwide, and is distinguished as the oldest and largest of its kind. The Conference historically unites more than 3,000 activists, attorneys, students, scientists, and concerned citizens from over 50 countries around the globe to share their experience and expertise. The Conference is organized solely by the volunteers of Land Air Water (LAW), a student environmental law society at the University of Oregon School of Law, and is co-sponsored by Friends of Land Air Water (FLAW), a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

The four-day Conference in Eugene, Oregon, includes over 125 panels, workshops, and multi-media presentations addressing a broad spectrum of environmental law and advocacy. Topics include: forest protection and ecological restoration, grazing and mining reform, labor and human rights, air and water pollution, Native American treaty rights, globalization and “free” trade, environmental justice, corporate responsibility, marine wilderness, international environmental law, water rights and dam removal, oil and gas litigation, genetic engineering, and urban growth.

Each day of the Conference culminates with keynote presentations from preeminent activists, scientists, politicians, philosophers, and authors. Past keynote speakers include Robert Kennedy, Ralph Nader, David Brower, Terry Tempest Williams, Ward Churchill, Vandana Shiva, Paul Watson, Winona LaDuke, Gerry Spence, Ramona Africa, Paul Hawken, and several recipients of the international Goldman Environmental Prize.

The Conference has become an event full of energy, innovation, and inspiration for all of us involved in the environmental movement. Whether you are a seasoned Conference attendee or a first-time participant, we look forward to seeing you!

Past conference information, including brochures, can be found on the history page.

For more information, please browse our website or contact LAW.