Kaitlin Pal

JD/MES Student at Osgoode Hall Law School and the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change at York University

Currently, I am pursuing a joint Juris Doctor and Master of Environmental Studies program at Osgoode Hall Law School and the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change at York University. I intend to focus my graduate research on the application of quantitative ecological indicators such as Ecological Footprint and Biocapacity, in environmental law, specifically as forms of evidence in legal cases. Having completed an Honours Bachelor of Environmental Studies degree from York University this spring, my research interests emerged from my desire to utilize law as a tool for environmental advocacy. I am deeply passionate about bridging quantitative data and legal advocacy to support evidence-based policy and legal decision-making.

I have been extensively involved with the Ecological Footprint Initiative at York University for about three years, and have completed two research projects. I calculated the Biocapacity of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation’s traditional territory as they were recently involved in a land claim case. This research was published as a special issue in the Spring 2025 Edition of the Journal of Aboriginal Economic Development. My Honours Thesis research calculated the biocapacity of Ontario’s Greenbelt and applied the I=PAT framework to analyze associated future trends in Ontario’s Ecological Footprint. Alongside my academic work, I’ve gained public sector experience at the Regional Municipality of York, with placements in both social services and transportation. 

Outside of the academic and professional sphere, I enjoy painting landscapes, crocheting, thrifting, and spending time with family and friends!

Why did you join ESAC?

As a recent addition to the Board of Directors, I joined ESAC after presenting my undergraduate Honours thesis at the 2025 conference. Prior to this conference, I had also attended ESAC’s social event at York University during the Fall of 2024, where I also presented research alongside my colleagues at the Ecological Footprint Initiative. At both of these events, I felt welcomed by my fellow researchers and conference attendees, and was inspired after learning about everyone’s diverse research interests. The welcoming environment and ability to connect with passionate academics and professionals in the field of environmental studies inspired me to join ESAC. After attending the 2025 conference and getting to know those on the board, I felt eager to attend the Annual General Meeting to learn more about the organization, get to know the rest of the team, and contribute!.