Welcome to the Program on Environmental & Energy Law at American University Washington College of Law!

American University Washington College of Law's Program on Environmental and Energy Law (PEEL) is committed to cultivating well-rounded legal professionals who are poised to make a positive impact on the world. PEEL offers students a rich array of avenues to immerse themselves in animal, environmental, and energy law. 

The program takes an interdisciplinary and inclusive approach to education, ensuring that our students develop a profound understanding of environmental issues while honing their legal expertise. Our curriculum is designed to ignite a profound appreciation for the environment and social justice, while fostering the development of legal excellence, cultural competency, and global awareness among our students. We strive to cultivate a passion for environmental issues and advocacy, foster cultural competency, promote global awareness, and instill a commitment to legal excellence.

PEEL consists of a vibrant network of accomplished faculty, dedicated staff, experienced adjuncts, and successful alumni that are readily available to serve as mentors, offering valuable guidance and support. Through an extensive range of resources and opportunities, including classes, research and writing prospects, captivating speaker series, international conferences, and externships both in Washington and across the globe, PEEL facilitates comprehensive engagement with these fields of law. Through their expertise and inspiration, we empower the next generation of lawyers to tackle environmental challenges and seek equitable solutions.

The Program supports six student-run organizations: the Animal, Energy, and Environmental Law Societies, AUWCL Community Garden, Native American Law Students’ Association, and the Sustainable Development Law and Policy Brief.