Benjamin J. Richardson

Benjamin J. Richardson is a Professor of Environmental Law at the University of Tasmania’s Faculty of Law, with affiliations including Adjunct Professor roles at Queen’s University (Canada) and York University (Canada). His career includes senior roles at the University of British Columbia (Senior Canada Research Chair in Environmental Law and Sustainability, 2011–2014) and York University’s Osgoode Hall Law School (2003–2010). Richardson’s research focuses on environmental law, property law, and interdisciplinary studies in environmental history, aesthetics, and film. He holds a Ph.D. (Law/Environmental Science) from the Australian National University (1996) and LLB/BA (Politics) from Macquarie University (1991).

• Professional Memberships: Royal Society of Tasmania, IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law, Australian Greens Disability Working Group
• Key Roles: Tasmanian Independent Science Council Member, Advisory Board for Macquarie University’s Centre for Environmental Law

Research highlights include books such as The Art of Environmental Law (2019) and Time and Environmental Law (2017). His current conservation covenant research addresses legal frameworks for private land stewardship. Richardson has advised on environmental policy for organizations like the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and the IUCN.

His articles analyze legal mechanisms for biodiversity protection, historical environmental controversies (e.g., Lake Pedder), and ethical challenges in aquaculture. Awards include the 2010 UNPRI Academic Network Research Excellence Prize and 2012 IUCN Senior Scholar Prize.

Grants: Australian Research Council (ARC), Social Sciences & Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC), New Zealand Law Foundation.