Established in 2002 by West Coast Environmental Law and the Thompson family, the Andrew Thompson Award honors the legacy of Dr. Andrew Thompson, a pioneering environmental lawyer and one of the organization’s first directors. In celebration of its 50th anniversary (2024–25), West Coast has recognized individuals who have made exceptional contributions to environmental protection and sustainability in British Colombia through legal advocacy.

Nominations for the youth environmental justice program are now open for young changemakers ages 16–35 who:

• have significantly contributed to environmental justice in British Colombia
• have a vision for how Canadian and/or Indigenous laws can strengthen ecological and community resilience over the next 50 years

A legal background is not required, though legally trained individuals are welcome to apply.

Successful nominees will:

1. travel to Vancouver (expenses covered) to participate in Envisioning the Future of Environmental Law: The Next 50 Years, a facilitated discussion for youth changemakers on May 12, 2025;
2. have their insights published by the West Coast Environmental Law Research Foundation; and
3. connect with fellow changemakers and engage with environmental and Indigenous rights lawyers.

Nominees need not be law students or lawyers, though nominations of legally trained people are welcome.

Nominate someone now at West Coast Environmental Law.