About the centre

The Biodiversity Law Centre is a registered non-profit organisation and law clinic which seeks to use the law to protect and restore ecosystems and species within Southern Africa.

History

The Biodiversity Law Centre was established by Kate Handley and Cormac Cullinan (Wild Law Institute) in 2022 with the support of the Centre for Environmental Rights, and the Abax Foundation. The Wild Law Institute conducted a feasibility study in 2020, which revealed a resounding support for a Biodiversity Law Centre, and that it operates not only in South Africa, but in the Southern African region.

The Biodiversity Law Centre was established in response to this need, and is the only non-profit law clinic which seeks to use the law to protect and restore ecosystems and species within Southern Africa.

Our vision

Our vision is flourishing indigenous species and ecosystems that support sustainable livelihoods in Southern Africa.

Our mission

Our mission is to use the law to protect, restore and preserve indigenous ecosystems and species in Southern Africa. By supporting civil society organisations, and local and indigenous communities in their efforts to safeguard their environments, the Centre seeks to advance its vision.