Oregon's Landmark Environmental Law Conference Unites Activists, Lawyers, and Students

The 44th annual Public Interest Environmental Law Conference at the University of Oregon brings together a global community fighting for the planet.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 6:14am by

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a single, iconic environmental object such as a tree or solar panel, repeated in a tight grid pattern to create a modern pop art representation of the environmental movement.The Public Interest Environmental Law Conference brings together a diverse community of activists, lawyers, and students united in their mission to protect the planet.Eugene Today

The Public Interest Environmental Law Conference, the oldest and largest event of its kind, celebrated its 44th year at the University of Oregon. The conference united activists, lawyers, and grassroots organizations from around the world to strategize, network, and find inspiration in their shared mission to protect the environment. Student organizers, like Molly Cochran and Jay Everett, helped coordinate the event, which featured panel discussions, film screenings, and award ceremonies.

Why it matters

The conference provides a rare opportunity for the diverse environmental community to come together, share knowledge, and collaborate on solutions. By connecting lawyers, activists, and students, the event helps strengthen the broader movement to defend the Earth's rights and address critical issues like climate change.

The details

The conference was founded in 1983 by UO Professor Emeritus John Bonine, former law professor Mike Axline, and law students. This year's event included a wide range of programming, from film screenings to panel discussions on topics like the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Attendees were able to connect with grassroots groups and national organizations, signing petitions and striking up conversations. Student organizers like Cochran and Everett gained valuable practical experience, with Cochran interning at a nonprofit focused on climate change and Everett spending the summer with environmental group Oregon Wild.

  • The Public Interest Environmental Law Conference has been held annually since 1983.
  • This year's 44th edition of the conference took place in April 2026.

The players

John Bonine

UO Professor Emeritus and one of the founders of the Public Interest Environmental Law Conference in 1983.

Mike Axline

Former UO law professor and one of the founders of the Public Interest Environmental Law Conference in 1983.

Molly Cochran

UO law student and one of the four co-directors who helped organize the 2026 conference. After graduating, she will intern with the California State Water Resources Control Board.

Jay Everett

UO law student and one of the four co-directors who helped organize the 2026 conference. After graduating, he hopes to work with a nonprofit or government agency on conservation issues.

Abby Dompier

UO law student and one of the four co-directors who helped organize the 2026 conference.

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What they’re saying

“It's a crown jewel for the University of Oregon. After the conference, I feel so much more energy and enthusiasm for the work I'm doing.”

— Aaron Isherwood, Managing attorney, Sierra Club

“Legally, the Earth has no standing. It has no money, constitutional rights to due process or any of the things we enjoy as humans who inhabit the Earth. So it needs defenders.”

— Molly Cochran, Law student and conference co-director

“I'm interested, above all, in doing work that is rewarding, fulfilling and makes a positive impact on the world. That's what drives me to work in this field.”

— Jay Everett, Law student and conference co-director

“We're all so busy. Having this time when we know we're all going to be together takes away that extra step of coordinating schedules. Someone says they're going to the conference and you say, 'Perfect, see you there.'”

— Abby Dompier, Law student and conference co-director

What’s next

The 45th annual Public Interest Environmental Law Conference is scheduled to take place at the University of Oregon in April 2027.

The takeaway

The Public Interest Environmental Law Conference demonstrates the power of bringing together diverse voices in the environmental movement, from students to seasoned activists and lawyers. By fostering collaboration and shared purpose, the event helps strengthen the fight to protect the planet for generations to come.