Biography

Deborah Curran

Deborah Curran joined the Eco-Research Chair as a Research Associate in 1997 and transitioned into an POLIS Affiliate in 2001. During her time as an Associate at POLIS she was a research manager, developed the POLIS Smart Growth program and wrote a number of reports on topics such the economic value of natural green space protection and the impact of big box stores. Deborah is a co-founder of Smart Growth BC and served as the president of the board for five years. She continues to collaborate with and advice POLIS on smart growth, land development and urban sustainability. 

Deborah holds a B.A (Hons.) in environmental science studies from Trent University, a L.L.B.  from the University of Victoria, and an L.L.M. from he University of California at Berkeley. She has long been active in environmental organizations, including the Ontario Public Interest Research Group and the Canadian Institute for Environmental Law and Policy. Her areas of interest include environmental equality, bioregionalism, land issues, litigation, and the democratization of law.

Through Deborah Curran & Company, Deborah provides legal advice to local governments and community organizations interested in implementing smart growth. She offers a broad spectrum of legal and planning expertise.