What does an Environmental Lawyer do? – Tasks and Work Environment
An environmental lawyer works with interpreting, applying, and developing laws and regulations related to environmental protection, sustainability, and natural resources. Tasks often include representing companies, authorities, or organizations in matters concerning environmental permits, environmental assessments, and disputes over environmental damage. The role also involves advising on the Environmental Code, EU directives, and other relevant legislation, as well as reviewing environmental impact assessments and contracts. Environmental lawyers operate in both private and public sectors, primarily in an office setting, but may also include site visits, negotiations, and participation in court proceedings.
Salary Development Over Time
Salaries for environmental lawyers have shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,300 SEK per month, increasing to 44 400 SEK in 2023 and further to 48 900 SEK in 2024. The total increase over the period amounts to approximately 15.6% over two years. Salary growth is driven by increased demand for specialized legal expertise in environmental law, as environmental legislation becomes more complex and companies' sustainability requirements tighten. Additionally, a growing number of environmental-related court cases and projects in both private and public sectors have contributed to rising salary levels. However, gender differences remain significant, with women generally experiencing lower salary growth than men in the profession.
Environmental Lawyer Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 48 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 36,000 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 72,800 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage (average): 294 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 46 900 SEK/month (88% of men's salary), men earn 53 100 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences is not available
Education and Qualifications
To work as an environmental lawyer, a law degree from a university is generally required, often with specialization in environmental law. The education includes both theoretical and practical components and can be supplemented with courses in environmental science, sustainable development, or administrative law. Internships at authorities, law firms, or companies with an environmental focus are common and provide valuable experience for the professional career.
- Formal degree: Law degree (4.5 years)
- Specialized courses: Environmental law, EU law, administrative law
- Internship: Recommended during studies, preferably at an environmental authority or law firm
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
- Certifications: Available in certain specialized areas, e.g., environmental management systems
Environmental lawyers can work internationally, especially within organizations such as the EU or UN, where environmental legislation is often harmonized across countries. This global dimension offers opportunities to influence environmental work on a large scale and opens exciting career paths outside Sweden.
Common Benefits and Compensation
Environmental lawyers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work. In the public sector, benefits may include extra vacation days and further training, while private employers sometimes offer bonus schemes and company cars.
Challenges and Competition
The profession of environmental lawyer is characterized by high competition for the most attractive positions, especially at large law firms and within international organizations. Challenges often involve the rapid development of legislation and case law, requiring continuous further education and updating of knowledge. The work also involves balancing legal precision with practical and ethical considerations in complex environmental issues. Since the profession is part of a broader group of lawyers, it is difficult to make precise forecasts, but the demand for environmental legal expertise is expected to remain strong, with approximately 758 available jobs in the "Other Lawyers" group according to recent statistics.
Tips for Aspiring Environmental Lawyers
To succeed as an environmental lawyer, it is good to be analytical and meticulous, which facilitates interpreting complex legislation and contracts. A genuine interest in the environment and the ability to stay updated on new regulations and international directives give an advantage in the profession. Communication skills are important for presenting legal arguments both in writing and orally, especially in negotiations and court. Building contacts during studies, for example through internships or volunteer work, increases chances of interesting positions. Persistence and the ability to handle high-pressure situations are also crucial, as environmental legal issues are often lengthy and complex. Additionally, being able to work independently and in teams is valuable, as many projects involve collaboration with other experts.
Key Facts About Environmental Lawyer
- Education level: Law degree (4.5 years)
- Occupational group: Other Lawyers
- Work environment: Office-based with elements of site visits and court proceedings
- Demand: Approximately 758 available jobs within the occupational group
- Gender salary gap: Women earn 88% of what men do
Career Paths and Future Outlook
After a few years of experience, environmental lawyers can advance to senior roles such as specialists, team leaders, or heads of environmental departments within companies, law firms, or authorities. It is also common to move into roles within international organizations, consulting, or research. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that it is difficult to give an exact outlook, as the profession is part of a broader group of lawyers, but the need for legal environmental expertise is expected to remain strong in line with increasing environmental requirements in society and business.
Frequently Asked Questions about Environmental Lawyer
- What is the average salary of an Environmental Lawyer?
- The average salary for an environmental lawyer is 48 900 SEK per month.
- What education is required to become an Environmental Lawyer?
- A law degree of 4.5 years is required, often with specialized courses in environmental law.
- Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
- Yes, women earn on average 88% of men's salaries within the profession.
- What is the job market like for Environmental Lawyers?
- There are approximately 758 available jobs within the "Other Lawyers" occupational group.
- What are the job responsibilities of an Environmental Lawyer?
- Tasks include legal advice, handling environmental permits, and participating in environmental legal proceedings.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for an Environmental Lawyer?
- The highest salary is 72,800 SEK/month, and the lowest is 36,000 SEK/month.
- Is it possible to work internationally?
- Yes, especially within the EU and international organizations.
