CELA

Canadian Environmental Law Association is a legal aid clinic dedicated to environmental equity, justice, and health.

Founded in 1970, CELA is one of the oldest environmental advocates for environmental protection in the country. With funding from Legal Aid Ontario, CELA provides free legal services relating to environmental justice in Ontario, including representing qualifying low-income and vulnerable or disadvantaged communities in litigation. CELA also works on environmental legal education and reform initiatives.

Legal Representation and Advice

How can we help?

Legal Education and Engagement

Learn about the law

Law Reform and Initiatives

Advocating for environmental justice

CELA's Latest Activities

Discover staff blog posts, publications, reports, alerts, and media releases.

CELA and LIEN Comments on 2026 Budget Consultations

CELA and LIEN comments on 2026 Toronto Budget

January 29, 2026

Blog: The Future of Environmental Law in Canada

Toronto proposes expanded AC program for low-income people in the 2026 budget.

January 28, 2026

Blog: Expanded Cooling Program Will Save Lives as Extreme Heat Intensifies in Toronto

Toronto proposes expanded AC program for low-income people in the 2026 budget.

January 26, 2026

Toronto Heat Safety coalition strongly supports increased access to air conditioning units in Toronto

Toronto Heat Safety coalition strongly supports increased access to air conditioning units in Toronto

January 26, 2026

Call for Board Members

CELA invites interested applications or nominations for qualified individuals to express interest in joining our Board of Directors.

January 23, 2026

Blog – Gold Mining, Sulphate Discharges, and Methylmercury: Is Environmental Policy Already Treating Parts of Ontario as Law-Free Special Economic Zones?

New blog examines trade pressures, mining deregulation, and impacts to justice and health.

December 19, 2025

CELA Turns 55!

We recently celebrated this milestone with friends and colleagues in a gathering featuring remarks from Rod Strain (Vice President, Clinic Law Services, Legal Aid Ontario) and an inspiring keynote address from Kathleen Padulo (Director of Environment, Chiefs of Ontario). We were delighted to welcome former staff, students, board members and other special guests to the event.

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