January 08, 2025

Real-world experiences bring environmental sustainability law to life

While traditional classrooms provide the foundation for learning, Professor of Law Troy Rule takes education beyond textbooks by allowing students to see what they’re studying in action.

“Environmental sustainability law and policy often involve tangible infrastructure, development projects and massive equipment,” Rule said. “I believe students who can witness these projects firsthand are better equipped to understand legal and policy challenges they face and often become even more interested in pursuing related careers.”

These hands-on experiences help students connect with the material and with one another, forming a unique bond with like-minded peers. 

Students in the Law and Sustainability Program at Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University have participated in several field trips. One highlight was a helicopter tour hosted by the Salt River Project, flying students from Phoenix Sky Harbor to the Roosevelt Dam. There, participants explored the dam and took in an aerial view of the Salt and Verde River watersheds. Other tours have included visits to the Clearway Agua Caliente utility-scale solar energy project, the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station, Freeport-McMoRan’s Safford copper mine in Thatcher, Arizona and a tour of NextEra’s Babbit Ranch Wind Energy Center.

Shannan Higgins, a third-year JD student focusing on environmental, water and energy law, participated in the wind farm tour, gaining insight into the operations of large-scale renewable energy projects and their legal and environmental considerations.

“Field trips like the NextEra Wind Farm tour are incredibly valuable as they provide firsthand exposure to real-world applications of concepts we study in the classroom,” said Higgins. “They help bridge the gap between theory and practice.”

These field trips enhance students' understanding of environmental law and inspire a deeper commitment to sustainable practices, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to the industry's future.

Learn more about ASU Law’s expertise in environmental sustainability.

Written by Crystal Jimenez