Ann Carlson

Ann Carlson is the Shirley Shapiro Professor of Environmental Law and faculty co-director of UCLA School of Law’s Emmett Institute on Climate Change and the Environment. She recently transitioned to serve as Chief Counsel of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a role requiring a leave of absence from UCLA. Her expertise spans environmental law, climate policy, and air pollution regulation.

• Primary Affiliations: UCLA School of Law, Emmett Institute
• Key Roles: Professor, Co-Director of Emmett Institute, NHTSA Chief Counsel

Her research focuses on legal frameworks for addressing climate change, air pollution policy, and the intersection of environmental law with regulatory agencies. Carlson co-authored the leading Environmental Law casebook and is preparing a book on Southern California’s air pollution history. She frequently contributes to public discourse via blogging at Legal Planet.

Carlson’s academic contributions include teaching awards such as the Eby Award and UCLA’s Rutter Award. Her work bridges academia and policy, shaping national standards for vehicle emissions and climate resilience strategies.