Who we are
We are the Southern Environmental Law Center — the largest nonprofit, nonpartisan environmental legal advocacy organization rooted in and focused on the South.
As lawyers, policy and issue experts, and community advocates and partners, we take on the toughest challenges to protect our air, water, land, wildlife, and the people who live here. And we win.
Transforming our region away from fossil fuel to clean energy, righting environmental injustice, stopping pollution, and protecting nature—When we solve these issues here, we lead the way for others.
That’s why we say, Solutions start in the South.
Our mission
To protect the basic right to clean air, clean water, and a livable climate; to preserve our region’s natural treasures and rich biodiversity; and to provide a healthy environment for all.
We are one of the nation’s most powerful defenders of the environment, rooted right here in the South.
Our focus
We protect our air, water, climate, wildlife, lands, and the people who live here.
Learn MoreSELC is committed to reflecting greater racial and cultural diversity and embedding equity and inclusiveness throughout our organization and the work we do.
Our history
As one of the nation’s first environmental lawyers, Rick Middleton founded the Southern Environmental Law Center in 1986 to focus on protecting and bettering the communities and places he called home, and the region he loved most: the South.
Our financials
The Southern Environmental Law Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that consistently receives the highest charity ratings.
Stay connected
Sign up to learn about our latest wins, ways to get involved in advocacy, and the latest news on how we’re ensuring the places and the people we all love can thrive.
Join us in being a part of the solution.