Public Interest Environmental Law Conference (PIELC)

The 44th annual Public Interest Environmental Law Conference (PIELC) is held in Eugene, Oregon. This conference is the world's oldest and largest public interest environmental law conference, bringing together over 5,000 activists, advocates, attorneys, scientists, government officials, policymakers, and concerned citizens from around the globe. The event, hosted by Land Air Water, a student group at the University of Oregon School of Law, focuses on sharing information and strategies to advance environmental and social justice. The 2026 theme, "Fight Back," addresses efforts to dismantle environmental protections and social justice, celebrating diverse leaders and fostering an inclusive, community-minded approach to environmental challenges. The four-day conference includes over 125 panels, workshops, and multi-media presentations covering topics such as forest protection, ecological restoration, mining reform, labor and human rights, air and water pollution, Native American treaty rights, globalization, environmental justice, corporate responsibility, marine wilderness, international environmental law, water rights, dam removal, oil and gas litigation, genetic engineering, and urban growth. Keynote presentations feature preeminent activists, scientists, politicians, philosophers, and authors.