Howard A. Learner: Environmental Law and Policy Center Executive Director 

Howard A. Learner is an experienced public interest litigation attorney serving as the President and Executive Director of the Environmental Law & Policy Center – the Midwest’s premier environmental legal advocacy and eco-business innovation organization, and among the nation’s leaders.  Mr. Learner is responsible for the overall strategic leadership, policy direction and financial platform of ELPC’s successful work promoting clean energy development solutions to climate change problems, advancing transportation innovations and improvements, including development of regional high-speed rail solutions, and preserving the Midwest’s valued natural resources and heritage.

Mr. Learner founded the ELPC in 1993 as an entrepreneurial start-up following his work as the General Counsel for Business and Professional People for the Public Interest, which specializes in policy advocacy and complex environmental, energy, economic development and civil rights litigation in federal and state courts. Mr. Learner began his legal career as a civil rights attorney focusing on housing issues, neighborhood revitalization, and advancing economic inclusion for diverse communities. He served as a Senior Advisor for Energy and Environmental Issues for President Barack Obama in his successful Presidential campaign in 2007 – 2008.

Much of Mr. Learner’s work has concentrated on developing and advocating new directions on environmental and energy policy issues, including: developing clean renewable energy and energy efficiency resources to avoid greenhouse gases, mercury, and other pollution from conventional power plants while creating jobs and advancing economic growth; accelerating sustainable transportation and land use strategies and leading national and regional efforts to develop a high-speed rail network that can produce complementary environmental quality, economic development and employment benefits; and protecting the Great Lakes and the Midwest’s wild and natural places – forests, waters and biodiversity.